Identifying Clicking Sounds While Riding

A clicking or creaking sound while riding is usually caused by a minor issue and is often easy to fix. The source can sometimes be difficult to identify because sound travels through the frame and may seem to come from a different location than the actual problem.

Whether the bike is new or has been ridden for years can also provide clues. On newer bikes, the cause is often a loose fastener or adjustment issue. On older bikes, worn components may be the source.

If the sound only occurs while riding, work through the following checks in order:

1. Pedals (Most Common Cause)

Loose or improperly installed pedals are one of the most common causes of clicking sounds.

• Check that both pedals are fully tightened to the crank arms.
• Remove and reinstall if necessary.
• Tighten to approximately 35–40 Nm.

2. Chain Tension

A chain that is too tight, too loose, or has a tight spot can create clicking, creaking, or rhythmic noises.

• Lift the rear wheel and slowly rotate the cranks.
• Check for tight spots as the chain rotates.
• Ensure the chain has the recommended amount of vertical movement (typically about 1/2 inch or 12 mm at its tightest point).
• Adjust chain tension if necessary.

3. Chainring Bolts

Loose chainring bolts can produce a click once per pedal revolution.

• Check all chainring bolts for tightness.
• Tighten to approximately 8–10 Nm.

4. Crankarm Fixing Bolts

Loose crankarms can cause clicking, creaking, and accelerated wear.

• Inspect crankarm fixing bolts for proper tightness.
• Square-taper crank bolts are typically tightened to approximately 35–45 Nm.
• For external-bearing or two-piece cranksets, follow the manufacturer's torque specifications.

5. Seatpost and Saddle Hardware

A click that seems to come from the drivetrain may actually be caused by movement in the saddle area.

Check:

• Seatpost binder bolt
• Saddle rail clamp bolts
• Saddle rails for damage

Ensure all hardware is properly tightened to specification.

6. Rear Wheel Bolts or Axle Nuts

On single-speed bikes, loose wheel bolts or rear axle nuts can occasionally cause clicking or creaking under load.

• Verify that both bolts or axle nuts are tightened securely.
• Recheck wheel alignment and chain tension afterward.

7. Spokes

A clicking sound can sometimes come from spokes moving against one another under pedaling load.

• Squeeze pairs of crossing spokes together by hand.
• Look for obviously loose spokes or damaged nipples.
• If several spokes feel loose, the wheel may need truing and tensioning.

8. Bottom Bracket

Although often suspected first, the bottom bracket is a less common cause, especially on newer bikes.

Signs of a bottom bracket issue include:

• Clicking or creaking under pedaling load
• Roughness when turning the cranks by hand
• Side-to-side play in the crankset

If the bottom bracket is worn or loose, it may need adjustment or replacement.

9. Other Possible Causes

Less common sources include:

• Loose rack, fender, bottle cage, or accessory mounting bolts
• Loose headset components
• Cracked pedals or worn pedal bearings
• Worn chain, chainring, or cog teeth on high-mileage bikes

Still Can't Find the Source?

If none of the above resolves the issue, contact us for assistance.

If possible, send a video of the sound while riding and any information such as:

• Whether the sound occurs only when pedaling
• Whether it changes with rider weight
• Whether it occurs once per pedal revolution or continuously