What is a roadbook?
A roadbook describes a route as an ordered sequence of notes. Each note combines a distance, a junction diagram and an instruction so you can recognise where to go on the ground. It can be used on paper or in the digital Reader.
On this page
Read a row from left to right
- Distance: the large value is the total from the start; the partial is the distance from the previous note. The note number keeps your place.
- Tulip diagram: read it in the direction you arrive. The open circle marks the waypoint; follow the arrow through the junction. Other branches provide context. The drawing is a simplified instruction, not a north-up map.
- Instruction: the written direction, landmarks and any danger, speed or CAP information complete the drawing. Coordinates identify the note’s location.
Compare your partial distance and surroundings with the next row. If they do not agree, stop somewhere safe and check the last confirmed note before continuing.
What a curved arrow means
A hairpin or sweeping bend can appear as a curved arrow. In RDBK it follows the local shape of the track around the note. Road styles distinguish surfaces; icons identify hazards and useful landmarks. A CAP is a compass bearing in degrees, a separate instruction from the shape of the arrow.
The Editor guide explains how to shape the track, add junction branches and position symbols. A clear diagram relies on correct route geometry and a field check.
Paper and digital navigation
In the Reader, GPS can validate notes, update total/partial distance and play attached voice guidance. A permitted note map helps locate the next waypoint. On paper you read the same note structure against your own odometer. Both require attention to the actual road and current conditions.
Open a complete PDF example
These real roadbooks show covers, note tables and printable layouts:
- Lecco Challenge 2026 — 54 km, 104 notes.
- Via del Sale 2025 — 154.41 km, 40 notes.
- Giro dei Laghi di Olginate e Garlate — 15.78 km, 39 notes.
The English desktop screenshots throughout these guides use demonstration data and open at full size when clicked. They explain the controls; they are not a verified itinerary. Continue with getting started or the Reader.