Carbon Fork Rattling noise

requiem

Hi there, my first post on here but I have been lurking for some time.. Now I need some help.

I purchased an unused specialized carbon fork for my Sirrus (which I have not put on yet) and am a little concerned that when i shake it there is a tiny rattling sound, like there is a very small loose piece inside. Given the nature of carbon I am considering taking it back to the shop where I bought it, what do you think?

Also there are some small imperfections in the paint (slight scratches etc which only appear to have damaged the paint itself). Is this anything to be worries about, again given the nature of the material?

Many thanks guys

ugo.santalucia

Have you fitted it properly? Is the headset tight, the stem properly closed, the cap pushing down appropriately, the hub tight enough and the quick release tight?

Check all these first, as one of them is likely to be the cause

ride_whenever

Full carbon or carbon/aluminium fork?

keef66

@Ugo

I purchased an unused specialized carbon fork for my Sirrus (which I have not put on yet)

I don't think he's fitted it incorrectly!

requiem

its carbon with i think a carbon crown, and an alloy steerer.. thanks guys..

requiem

any ideas at all? Im quite tempted to take it back, as I understand its potentially dangerous to ride on carbon even if the paint is chipped.. Any opinions on that last statement?

I cannot imagine what that the tiny piece inside would be.. Unlikely to be paint as they wouldnt paint the inside, but im at a loss of what to do because I think the fork other wise looks great and I would imagine would ride perfectly

thanks again

nickwill

Even if its safe, the rattling will annoy you when you are riding.

racingcondor

I'd start by turning it upside down and giving it a damn good shake. If the bit comes out (and doesn't look like it's snapped off something) then fit the fork, if not I'd exchange it, it's probably not damaged but if you can't stop the rattling then it's going to drive you nuts.

ride_whenever

You don't need to worry about the integrity of carbon all that much. As for paint chips, as long as the carbon isn't cracked then you're usually fine, however ask a bike shop to look it over if you're unsure.

It could quite possibly be a piece of resin or something inside however i'd probably take it back as it's going to be really annoying when riding.