How to Find a Clicking or Creaking Noise

In plain English

Creaks and clicks are usually two parts moving against each other because a bolt is loose or a contact point needs grease. Noise travels through the frame, so it often isn't where it seems. Narrowing down when it happens finds it fastest.

Work from the top. Steps go from free and easy to shop jobs. Switch the bike off before touching any connector. Tick each step as you go. Your progress is saved on this device.

1. 1Find when it happensFree Only when pedaling? Standing or sitting? Over bumps? Braking? Each points to a different area.
2. 2Check pedals and cranksFree Try to wiggle each pedal and crank arm. Tighten loose pedals (the left pedal tightens the opposite way). See our loose pedals guide.
3. 3Check the saddle and seatpostFree If it creaks when you sit or shift weight, check the saddle bolts and seatpost clamp are tight. A little grease on the seatpost often silences it.
4. 4Check the wheelsFree Make sure axles and quick-releases are tight, and squeeze the spokes for loose ones.
5. 5Grease contact pointsEasy Remove, grease and refit noisy parts one at a time (pedal threads, seatpost), testing between each, so you know which fixed it.
6. 6Have the gears and chain checkedShop job A shop can straighten a bent derailleur hanger, set the gear limits and replace worn chains and cassettes.

Parts you might need

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Only buy a part if the free steps didn't fix it. Always match the voltage and connector type to your bike.

• Bike grease

  For pedal threads, seatposts and other contact points that creak.

  Link coming soon

• Bike multi-tool or hex key set

  Fits nearly every bolt on a bike. Useful for almost every guide here.

  Link coming soon

• Pedal wrench

  A thin, long wrench that fits pedal flats and gives extra leverage.

  Link coming soon