why does my bike creak when pedaling?

Question

just recently my started creaking, it sounds like its coming from the bottom bracket area. i have the 07 LX cranks with integrated spindles and a race face diablous bb. what should i do? i dont have the tools to take it apart and neither does my shop. i had to use poorman's tools to get it installed in the first place and i wont be able to get it off on my own.

it seems to creak the worst when on the 2nd chainring. it does it a little on the 1st and i can barely hear it at all when on the 3rd.

i keep my chain well oiled and everything else in tune. i take care of my bike like it was my baby. so whats going wrong?

Answer 1

could be coming from the seatpost or the rails under the saddle

or believe it or not, check the tension of all spokes
take it to a bike shop for true & tension

Answer 2

It could be one or more things, and the answer Jay gave is a good one, but there are easier methods.

1) Tighten all the bolts that hold your chainrings on. If you want to get really detailed, remove the bolts, place a small amount of lube between the spacers and chainrings, then reassemble. Do NOT lubricate the bolt threads.

2) Check to make sure your crank arms are tightened to spec. Some people apply lube to the spline prior to mounting the crank arms, but some manufacturers tell you not to do it.

3) If it still creaks, you have no choice but to take the works apart and inspect it.

4) Sometimes- although rarely- creaking comes from the bars and stem but sounds as if it is related to the crank since you are placing force on the bars at about the same time you are with the crank. You can check this out pretty quickly as well.

Answer 3

Creaking is the result of metal on metal movement. There are several things that could be wrong here, but I would narrow it down by doing the following. Remove the crank and bottom bracket. Reinstall making sure to grease all threads with a good bicycle grease. The most likely problem is a dry and loose bottom bracket or ever so slightly loose cranks.

Answer 4

I know this isn't the answer you're looking for, but....

I had a brand new bike that creaked every time I pedaled. Shimano M-340 was the crankset. The shop couldn't solve it.

4 years & 3000 miles later, it still creaks & works perfectly. My sanity has been tested, but I figure it helps confuse lurking mtn lions.


Another note....I've heard that chains transfer sound so don't rule out something in the cassette or rear hub.

Answer 5

as you had said, you did not use the proper tools for the job. It seems you have not tightened the set to the correct torque. therefore with continued use, the set loosened. and with some parts exposed to the elements, the pre-greased areas dried up. And with contact areas dry, creaking is the next inevitable thing that will happen. So, you need to open it up and grease up again. Suggestion, invest in specific tools for the job so you can tighten it yourself properly

Answer 6

it incredibly is probable the two going to be your stem or your crank. On a flat floor, pedal at a slow %. and then push forward on your handlebars. Then pedal at a similar time as status up. you ought to have the skill to isolate the priority right here. If the stem, merely take it area, upload some lube. no rely if it is your crank, it would desire to would desire to get replaced, yet a splash lube on the crank or cups would do the trick.

Answer 7

All good answers, but let's get personal. Have you had a recent unexplained weight gain? Have you increased your saddle time as a result? I am hearing a bike in pain, and you may be responsible.

Answer 8

It could be your knees that are creaking.

Answer 9

you need to oil your chain