For most riders, the shortest route isn't always the cheapest route.

A motorcycle can easily gain or lose 10–20 MPG depending on the type of roads you ride. Constant stop-and-go traffic, aggressive acceleration, steep hills, and high interstate speeds all burn more fuel than a smooth, steady ride.

Google Maps now makes it easier than ever to choose routes that use less fuel—and the feature works just as well for motorcycles as it does for cars.

Step 1: Open Google Maps

Open Google Maps on your phone or computer and enter your destination.

Select Directions.

Step 2: Choose Your Route

Enter your starting location and destination.

If you're riding your motorcycle, you can either:

• Select the Motorcycle icon (where available), or

• Choose the standard driving route.

Google will display several route options.

Step 3: Turn On Fuel-Efficient Routing

Google Maps automatically suggests the most fuel-efficient route in many regions.

Look for:

• A green leaf icon

• Text that says "Fuel-efficient route"

• A note showing how much fuel or energy you could save

Sometimes this route takes only a minute or two longer than the fastest option while saving fuel.

Step 4: Compare Your Options

Don't automatically choose the fastest route.

Compare:

• Total distance

• Estimated travel time

• Amount of traffic

• Number of turns

• Road types

A route that's two minutes slower but avoids heavy traffic may save significantly more fuel.

Step 5: Avoid Heavy Traffic

Traffic is one of the biggest fuel killers.

Google Maps uses live traffic data to route around:

• Congestion

• Accidents

• Construction

• Slow-moving traffic

Less time sitting at red lights means less fuel wasted.

Step 6: Favor Steady-Speed Roads

Motorcycles are generally most efficient when maintaining a steady speed.

Roads with:

• Fewer traffic lights

• Moderate speed limits

• Smooth traffic flow

often produce much better fuel economy than city streets.

Many riders are surprised that a scenic state highway can use less fuel than a crowded urban shortcut.

Step 7: Add Fuel Stops Before You Need Them

Google Maps lets you search along your route.

Tap Search Along Route and look for:

• Gas stations

• Convenience stores

• Coffee shops

• Restaurants

Planning fuel stops ahead of time helps avoid expensive emergency fill-ups in remote areas.

Step 8: Download Maps Before Long Trips

If you're riding through mountains or rural areas, cell service can disappear.

Before leaving:

1. Open Google Maps.

2. Tap your profile picture.

3. Select Offline Maps.

4. Download the region you'll be riding.

You'll still have navigation even without a signal.

Bonus Tips for Better Motorcycle Fuel Economy

Google Maps can only do so much. Your riding habits make the biggest difference.

To maximize fuel economy:

• Accelerate smoothly.

• Maintain a consistent speed.

• Shift early on bikes with manual transmissions.

• Avoid excessive idling.

• Keep tires properly inflated.

• Remove unnecessary luggage when possible.

• Keep your chain clean and properly lubricated.

• Stay current on maintenance.

Does the Fuel-Efficient Route Always Save Money?

Not always.

If the efficient route adds significant distance or travel time, the savings may be minimal.

But in many cases, Google's fuel-efficient option is only a few minutes slower while reducing fuel consumption by several percent.

For commuters and long-distance riders, those savings can add up over an entire riding season.

Final Thoughts

Fuel-efficient routing isn't just about saving money. A smoother route often means less stress, fewer stops, and a more enjoyable ride.

Before your next trip, take an extra 30 seconds to compare Google Maps' suggested routes. That little green leaf could save you fuel, reduce wear on your motorcycle, and make the ride more enjoyable—all without adding much time to your journey.

Sometimes, the best road isn't the fastest one. It's the one that lets you keep rolling.

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