{"id":9516,"date":"2022-07-27T10:48:59","date_gmt":"2022-07-27T14:48:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/?p=9516"},"modified":"2024-02-05T22:41:34","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T03:41:34","slug":"how-to-fix-a-creaking-bottom-bracket","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/maintenance-and-repairs\/how-to-fix-a-creaking-bottom-bracket\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Fix Bike Creaks & Noises from A Bottom Bracket"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A bottom bracket is a vital component of a bicycle. But they can become loose and creak as they age. So how can you repair a squeaking bottom bracket?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, you will learn what a bottom bracket is, why it can make noise, and how to repair a creaking bottom bracket so you can keep your bike operating smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To reduce bottom bracket creaking, clean the threads on the frame and bottom bracket thoroughly, then re-grease them. Teflon tape on the threads can help with stubborn cartridge bottom bracket squeaks. Then, reinstall with a drop of green Loctite on the threads. Finally, use a lubricant on the threads.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a bottom bracket?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The bottom bracket (sometimes called the BB) is a bicycle component that connects the crankset to the frame, allowing the crankset to rotate independently of the frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The bottom bracket is generally threaded but can also be pushed into the bottom bracket shell of a frame \u2013 the sleeve that links the tubes to the frame’s front triangle.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bottom brackets require bearings to allow rotation and are typically considered service items. Some can be fixed or rebuilt. However, most modern designs are designed to be replaced rather than repaired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why does my bike make a creaking noise when I pedal?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

That squeaking as you cycle could indicate that your bike has a dry chain or bearings<\/strong>. Cleaning and lubricating your chain is an excellent place to start with any strange noise, but if that doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to replace some bearings or the whole unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How do you find a creaking bottom bracket without tools?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The first thing you have to do is identify if the noise is coming from your bottom bracket. This is going to be a process of elimination. You’ll have to listen to different parts on your bike to see if you can replicate the noise and isolate it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sit on the bike’s top tube, squeeze the front brake, and rock it back and forth. You might be able to make the front brake caliper or headset creak. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bounce on the saddle to determine whether it creaks, suggesting a problem with the saddle, seat post, wheels, or suspension parts.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next, grab the front and rear wheels at the top and rock the wheel from left to right while gripping the saddle with your other hand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, listen to the bike to see if you can pinpoint the source of the squeak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image of a red bike with a man holding it. Source: karolina grabowska, pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How do you fix a creaking bottom bracket?<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Below are tips to repair or fix a creaking bottom bracket.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n

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  1. \n

    Remove your bottom bracket<\/h3>\n

    The first step is to remove the bottom bracket. You can do this with a set of tools or a bottom bracket wrench. Here’s a great post from park tools on how to remove a bottom bracket.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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    Clean the threads<\/h3>\n

    Clean the threads on the frame and bottom bracket well, then re-grease them. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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    Use some Teflon tape <\/h3>\n

    Use Teflon tape on the threads to stop obstinate cartridge bottom bracket squeaks. Then, reinstall with a drop of green Loctite on the threads.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

    What if you have a press-fit bottom bracket<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Bottom brackets with a press fit are more difficult to service. First, you’ll need the proper removal tool. Then you’ll need a proper bearing press tool, which can cost anywhere from $80 to $240. Given how rarely you’ll need to work on your bottom bracket, you might be better off bringing your bike to your local bike shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Finally, because press-fit bottom brackets aren’t meant to be reused after removal, you’ll need to get a new one. Before fitting it, you’ll also need to use a press-fit retention compound like the one from Park Tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If everything else fails, look at the bottom bracket region again. Inside, check to determine if the bottom bracket shell is within specification and not ovalized. Do you see an aluminum inlay in your carbon frame? The two’s link may have been severed. If this is the case, you may be required to return the frame to the manufacturer for repair or replacement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you want even more tips, watch this video called “How To Fix A Creaking Bottom Bracket Or Cranks” from the Global Cycling Network YouTube Channel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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