Bicycle noisesWhen the frame cracks and cables creak

Jens Klötzer

 · 31.10.2024

Drop the bike onto the tyres from a height of a few centimetres to locate a noise in or on the frame.
Photo: Matthias Borchers

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Unusual noises on the bike are not a good sign. It is often not immediately clear where they are coming from. A bike check is essential. Check the frame and cables if they crack and creak.

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In the middle of a ride, do you suddenly hear a strange noise that seems to be coming from your bike? This should be rectified for several reasons. Unfortunately, it is often not possible to directly determine which part of the bike is causing the noise. We have therefore listed several susceptible components and show you the easiest way to check them for noises and what you can do about them. How to check the frame and cables.

Noises on the bike: How to check whether the frame is the trigger

Drop the bike onto the tyres from a height of a few centimetres to locate a noise in or on the frame.Photo: Matthias BorchersDrop the bike onto the tyres from a height of a few centimetres to locate a noise in or on the frame.

Pothole, cobblestones - and it rattles in the box? Then there is often something loose in or on the frame. Drop the bike onto the tyres from a height of a few centimetres, try it with the front wheel and rear wheel separately to narrow down the source.


>> An overview of the search for noise sources can be found here: Noise on your bike: how it occurs & how to fix it


Cause Cables

Internal pipes can be permanently immobilised with foam hoses that are pushed over them.Photo: Matthias BorchersInternal pipes can be permanently immobilised with foam hoses that are pushed over them.

Internally routed cables that rattle in the frame tubes are a nuisance even on new bikes. They can also hit the walls from the inside when turning. They can be permanently immobilised with foam hoses that are pushed over the cables. A tightened cable tie, which supports the cable against the frame tube, can also help, but the cables must also be removed for this. The effort can be avoided with a brush that is subsequently pushed into the frame tube.

Loose steering bearing

Check the fit by pulling the front brake, grasping the gap between the fork crown and head tube and moving the wheel forwards and backwards.Photo: Matthias BorchersCheck the fit by pulling the front brake, grasping the gap between the fork crown and head tube and moving the wheel forwards and backwards.
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A knocking from the front frame area on uneven surfaces may indicate a loose steering bearing. Check the fit by pulling the front brake, grasping the gap between the fork crown and head tube and moving the bike forwards and backwards. There must be no play between the frame and fork. Readjust the play in the steering bearing if necessary.

Noises on the bike: Dry steering bearing

If it creaks when steering, the steering bearing is usually to blame. Then it's a case of dismantling, cleaning, applying a thin layer of grease to all parts, reinstalling and adjusting.Photo: Matthias BorchersIf it creaks when steering, the steering bearing is usually to blame. Then it's a case of dismantling, cleaning, applying a thin layer of grease to all parts, reinstalling and adjusting.

If it creaks when steering, the steering bearing is usually to blame. Then it's a case of dismantling, cleaning, applying a thin layer of grease to all parts, refitting and adjusting. The Bowden cables, steering bearing covers and spacers can also creak in the steering area. Then it helps to apply some Silicone spray or Spray oil into the pull stops on the frame.

Other causes of noise on the bike


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Jens Klötzer is a qualified industrial engineer and TOUR's expert for components of all kinds: brakes, gears, wheels and tyres - Jens puts everything through its paces. He collects historic racing bikes and owns both a modern time trial bike and a titanium gravel touring bike. When travelling, he likes to explore unknown roads in Eastern Europe - on wide but fast tyres.

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