"People are looking for a comfortable, easy-to-ride bike, and this demand is a direct result of Hawke's Bay Trails," he said.
Their responses came as no surprise to Hawke's Bay Regional Council chairman Fenton Wilson, who had seen the economic impact of the trails on the Bay's economy.
"Not only have new businesses started up, many existing local businesses such as cafes, wineries and accommodation providers are seeing increased trade from cyclists using the trails," Mr Wilson said.
The region had an investment of $5.5 million in the largely off-road walking and cycling network - with the investment gaining the full support of Hawke's Bay Tourism, which was working with Hawke's Bay Regional Council on promoting the trails, nationally and internationally.
Annie Dundas, general manager of Hawke's Bay Tourism, had seen an increase in interest and support for the Bay's trails from tourism operators.
"Local operators see how it can add real value to their businesses, and we see Hawke's Bay Trails as a wonderful linking mechanism to all the fabulous tourism attractions in the region."
She said there had also been increased interest from national and international media.
"Cycling the Hawke's Bay Trails provides travel, food and wine writers a unique and fun way of visiting many of our local 'destinations' and then promoting Hawke's Bay to their readers offshore."
Cyclists are asked to adhere to any signage as some parts of the trails are under construction.
The new map will be available at any Hawke's Bay i-SITE or Visitor Information Centre, as well as trail-related businesses. It is also available online at www.hbrc.govt.nz or www.hawkesbaynz.com.