Noticed an odd/annoying "feature" yesterday. I loaded a road but as I set off I was too busy checking that the brakes were connected (see Diverry passim), I was clipped in and had shoes on the right feet that I forgot to start the ride. Directions came up OK so I continued and only after a few miles realised that the distance wasn't showing, although speed was.
So it will give directions even if the ride hasn't started.