Absurd creaking coming from bottom bracket...

nternal1

I'm a new rider and have only been on a bike for 5 weeks. I got a new Giant Defy 1 and do a 30 km circuit at an average speed of 30 kph every second day. I know this is no big deal for a serious rider but weighing in at 190 lbs. my rides are enough to put the bike through it's paces. When I first got the bike I noticed what sounded like the front derailer rubbing the chain (which it wasn't). I ignored this and it came and went but, over the last couple of rides, this noise seems to have developed into loud creaking when I'm driving hard with my legs. It's loud enough to be sort of embarrassing when I ride by someone else and reminds me of the sound my pre-teen 3 speed beater made after years of abuse (back in the early 70s). What should I be looking for as the problem?

Ps. Other than this noise the bike seems to ride OK.

turnerjohn

the bikes still properly under warrenty so take it back and get it checked....should have a free checkup due on any new bike.
it may not be the bottom bracket (misconception from a lot of people as to where sound comes from !) check the seat post and stem bolts. could also be your pedals....like said take it to the shop as if the BB is in fact knackered they may replace it for you...may not be covered due to this being a "replaceable part" but worth a try

vfast1

Yes like has been said check your seatpost as I had a horrendous creaking on my bike which I thought was the bb but turned out to be the seatpost! A quick tighten and creaking gone!

popularname

Like turnerjohn says - just took my bike into the LBS with a "bottom bracket" problem (similar symptoms to yours nternal1) and the mechanic was very polite when he pointed out that the new pedals I'd put on hadn't been tightened properly...

Two swift applications of the spanner and I was back outside, noise free...

nternal1

Thanx for the suggestions dudes. I eliminated the seat or seatpost as the the source since the noise remained when I pedalled standing up. I actually considered that it might be the the pedals but I'll take it in on Tuesday to get checked.

dee4life2005

Might also be worth checking the front wheel quick release ... I've had a creak come from there before.

chris@68

Chainring bolts is another one to check.

Dezza

Check your chain lube.

I've been using white lightening dry lube all summer and couldn't track down my elusive creaking for months. The recent rain meant i swapped for wet lube and the noise disappeared - I couldn't believe it!

topdude

I eliminated the seat or seatpost as the the source since the noise remained when I pedalled standing up.

Don't eliminate the seatpost without removing/cleaning/re-greasing first.
The frame still flexes when you ride standing up.

markhewitt1978

popularname wrote:

Two swift applications of the spanner and I was back outside, noise free...

Ah useful to know, as I have a creak from the BB area but only on the upstroke of the right pedal and started soon after I installed new pedals! Perhaps I'll take that pedal off and reinstall.