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INSTRUCTION GUIDE
TROUBLESHOOTING BIKE SQUEAKS/CREAKS/NOISES
Bicycles can start to generate squeaks, creaks and noises. Often, these noises are a result of depleted lubrication and/or loose components,
which is caused mostly by using your bike in the manner it was intended. Periodic maintenance, in most cases, can stave off annoying squeaks,
bizarre creaks and strange noises. Sometimes, these conditions (which can sometimes be symptoms) might require more investigation to
uncover its source and apply a fix.
This instruction guide can not only show you what locations are most prone to generating ride-ruining noises, but can also function as a safety
guide of items to check before any ride. It only takes a minute or so to inspect the items shown below. If, after checking all components, you
are still experiencing squeaks, creaks and/or noises, we highly recommend taking your bike into a Specialized Authorized Dealer for further
inspection.
For proper torque specifications, consult the owner’s manual or instruction guide of the specific component. Failure to apply the
proper torque can result in equipment damage, which can result in catastrophic failure and lead to serious injury or death. GET
A TORQUE WRENCH! This is especially true when working with carbon and carbon parts. Consult the components’ manual for
proper torque specifications. With mating components, use the smaller torque value. Never use grease on carbon parts; use
carbon paste instead.
ITEM LOCATION DESCRIPTION/SOLUTION
1 Seat post clamp Specialized single-bolt clamps require a large amount of torque. A torque wrench must be used to achieve this torque setting, otherwise a
loud creaking noise will be heard. Lightly grease all metal-to-metal contact points, especially the bolts on the clamp mechanism.
2 Seat post collar Make sure the seat post collar is properly tightened. For quick-release collars, make sure the bolt is adjusted so that proper tightening force is
applied when the lever is closed. DO NOT USE GREASE on carbon seat posts and/or frames. Use carbon paste instead.
3 Rear shock mounting bolts Properly lubricate the shock bolts. You might have to remove the bolts to thoroughly lubricate them. After removing the bolts, check the DU
bushings to abate any side-to-side movement.
4 Quick-release levers/skewers Check to ensure the quick-release levers on the wheels are properly fastened. There should be ample resistance on the lever when closing
the levers. If not, turn the bolt until a significant amount of force is required to close the lever. Check the quick-release levers before each and
every ride.
5 FSR pivot bolts Consult the FSR frame manual that came with your bicycle for proper torque specifications on the linkage bolts. In most cases, proper
lubrication of these pivot points eliminates creaking issues, with bearing removal unnecessary. (An FSR Toolkit is required to remove/install
FSR pivot bearings. Do not remove them with standard tools.)
6 Chainring bolts Make sure the chainring bolts are properly tightened. They should not turn freely. If they need to be tightened, consult the cranks’ owner’s
manual for proper specifications and tightening order.
7 Stem bolts Stem bolts must be properly tightened. Bolts might also need to be tightened in a particular order, as defined by the manufacturer. For carbon
steerer tubes, it is imperative that proper torque specifications are used when tightening stem bolts. DO NOT USE GREASE on carbon
steerer tubes.
8 Headset Stem and stem cap bolts must be properly tightened to properly secure the headset components. For carbon steerer tubes, exclusive
expander plugs must be used in place of star nuts.
9 Bottom bracket Loose bottom bracket cups can generate a lot of noise, which can reverberate through the entire frameset, making them difficult to diagnose.
Stand on the side of your bike, step on the pedal ,and push down with your foot. It might be easier to hold your bike at a 45-degree angle
away from your body as you’re doing this. Listen (and feel) for any noises or creaks, then tighten to manufacturer’s specifications if necessary.
Lubricate the bottom bracket cups. If creaks/noises still persist after torquing all components to specification, a bottom bracket overhaul may
be necessary.
10 Rear Derailleur & Hanger Bolt Tighten the rear derailleur and hanger bolt. Most rear derailleur/hanger bolts are 5mm hex. Some thru-axle rear derailleurs might require
different tools. Check with the manufacturer for proper torque values and, if required, special tools.
11 Pedals Tighten pedals using a pedal wrench (or hex keys accessed on the inside). Remember, the non-drive side pedal is reverse thread. Check with
your crank manufacturer to see if washers are required between the pedal and crank arm. Lubricate the pedal threads prior to installation. |
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