Creaking noise from bike....help needed

[tim0409]

Hi there

I was out today on my 2016 Cannondale CAADX cyclocross, which despite it's age hasn't been used much and is in good condition; I noticed what could best be described as a creaking noise when pedalling whilst sat on the seat. The noise is in sync to the pedalling (if that makes sense). If I come off the seat and pedal the noise stops. Any ideas on the likely cause?

Many thanks

Tim

[journeymanpro]

Bottom bracket bearings

[InitialDave]

Saddle rails and seat post would be my first things to check.

[MC Bodge]

Saddle clamps, bottom bracket or chainring bolts are the usual culprits.

[tim0409]

Many thanks for the quick replies; I will tighten up the seat post and rails and see how I get on tomorrow.

[Mr E]

I had a creak only when it was cold. Checked everything.

It was my left knee.

[Johnnybee]

When I had the same problem it was cured by re-tightening the rear wheel, I just wish I'd done that before the bottom bracket and chain rings

[Simes205]

Seat post, loosen, move 30 degrees each way and tighten up.
Ride and see if that eradicates it.

[Gareth79]

Johnnybee said:

When I had the same problem it was cured by re-tightening the rear wheel, I just wish I'd done that before the bottom bracket and chain rings

Yes was just about to suggest this! I built up a new bike and was convinced that it was a PF BB creaking. Tightened the rear skewer and it stopped.

[MiseryStreak]

Check and tighten the crankset bolts, if it’s not them it’s the sodding bottom bracket. Moisture gets in and turns the bearings to gravel. You can actually ignore it and it will keep going for thousands of miles before seizing up, but it’s bloody annoying. Usually worse climbing hills as more torque going through them.

If you have Shimano SPDs, the cleats on these can creak if the bolts loosen.

Edit: I didn’t read your post properly, if it’s only when seated it’s the seat rails. Sometimes the saddle itself creaks where the rails attach to the plastic saddle, spray some GT85 in there.

Edited by MiseryStreak on Saturday 4th April 21:00