Homebrewing Cue Sheets
 

Up until now, I've been looking at relatively simple routes. But now I'm starting to realize that I'm not going to be able to keep all the directions in my head to get somewhere with some of the places and distances I'm looking into now. I searched, too, and really didn't find much, so I'm wondering if anyone had any tips for coming up with something, as well as keeping the list around so it doesn't get lost or messed up in the midst of the ride? Thanks.

Use a map directions program such as

http://www.mapquest.com/

You could even cut and paste to a word processing program to make some changes if you wanted.

Also search the forum, some have posted websites listed certain routes in various locations.

For touring, joining
http://www.adventurecycling.org/routes/network.cfm
to get their maps may be of use.

Zip-lock bags work to keep directions dry and kept in pockets or whatever. If you really want something in your eyes all the time, there are some map covers that mount to the stem.

Have you tried using a map? And a map case?

I use bikely.com to map route, and then a spreadsheet for cues. Example:

2.6 / 18.8 / L / Maple Ave. / S / pass Maple Cir.

This shows: miles since last turn, total miles to turn, turn direction, street name, compass direction after turn, special notes, like 2 streets with similar names, landmarks, etc.

You can likely get a simple cue sheet holder at your LBS. It's just a velcro strap with a clip. I put my cue sheet in a ziploc, and the holder is surprisingly effective, sitting on the stem.

Hmmm... you do know that Bikely generates nice cue sheets all by itself, don't you?

Check this thread, scroll down to post #3. This guy makes a nice cue sheet holder out of a clothes hanger and cord.
Mapmyride has a decent cue sheet application.
Ernest

An easy way to get condensed cue sheets from google maps is at this link: http://www.the-yosts.com/googlemap_cuesheet.html

I'm not associated with them, just use it lots with Firefox

I don't know if it's the same one rogerstg linked to, but I've used the generator found here several times. Basically you map out your route in Google Maps and then click on a bookmarklet in your browser, which generates the cue sheet for you. The cue sheet is based on the Google Maps directions, so you're stuck with the turns they give you (especially annoying when their map is out of date and doesn't show a road), but it does a good job at making a quick cue sheet.

Here's an example: