Adding stiffness to bike?

supermurph09

Hi

Over the last few months I have noticed a creaking from the bottom bracket area of my Cube Agree GTC Race. It doesnt sound like anything major (for now) but something I have also begun to notice is that my bike does not feel very stiff. Most of my rides are hilly so whilst I attempt to remain seated, particularly when I stand up I don't feel the effort I'm putting in is being translated onto the road. Is there anything I can change that may have an effect?

Would swapping the chainset provide any help, or is it just likely to be the frame that is causing this and I'm noticing it more now my riding is stronger? I'm only 77KG (6ft tall) so wouldn't consider myself a heavyweight. I should add I'm using PX 52mm Carbon Clinchers.

Pross

Are you sure it's not wheel bearings and play in the rear wheel? I was convinced my BB was seizing last year but it turned out to be the wheel bearings (despite the wheel being just a few months old). If the BB shell is flexing I doubt there is much you can do - get it checked and if there is a fault you may be able to get the frame replaced.

cougie

Borrow a different set of wheels and see if it is the wheels. I doubt you're flexing the frame.

No play in the BB ?

supermurph09

I could put my old wheels back on and see if they feel any different. Despite the creak from the BB area it feels like the front wheel is very soft. And I run my PSI between 110 and 120 so its not something I'd expect.

paul_mck

unless the bike is made of cheese you shouldnt feel that much flex I wouldnt have thought.

diamonddog

I would try different wheels as others have advised.