Bicycle Squeaking

Locate the Noise

Unfortunately, a squeaking bike can be caused by any moving parts, and bicycles have a lot of them! Squeaking result come from improper lubrication of parts that should move, play in parts that shouldn't move, poorly installed accessories, or age/damage in the frame itself. See if you can narrow down the noise to a specific area or component by listening carefully while riding (slowly and in a controlled space—be sure not to crash while concentrating on squeaking sounds).

Once you locate the noise, follow the corresponding steps for the component(s) below. Then take a quick test ride to see if the squeaking is gone!

The drive train is usually the culprit but not always. Most commonly, the chain hasn't been lubricated and is crunchy with rust or debris, especially if the bike hasn't been ridden in a while or has been stored outside in the elements. As the dozens of pins slide against chain plates squeaking invariably occurs.

To fix the squeaking, you'll need to lube the chain:

1. Lean the bike against a stable wall, or put it up in a bike stand. Ensure that the bike is stable enough to not tip over, while also having sufficient clearance to allow the cranks to spin freely.
2. Find a bicycle specific lubricant (WD-40 or a similar product is not recommended but will work in a pinch), and apply it generously to each pin of the chain. You should be able to rotate the cranks backwards while you work (given your bicycle doesn't have a drum brake), allowing you to apply the lubricant near the cassette while the chain spins around it.
3. Once you have applied lubricant to the entire length of the chain, get on the bike and pedal it briefly, switching the gears up and down the full range of your cassette to distribute the lubrication throughout the system. Be sure to roll up your pant leg to avoid getting your pants dirty at this step!
4. Set your bike back up against the wall or put it back into the stand. Rotate the cranks backwards again while wiping the chain off with a rag or paper towel. Adjust the rag/towel periodically to continue to collect dirty lubricant from the chain.

All done! Take a quick test ride to make sure you aren't experiencing any more squeaking.

Your headset can develop corrosion and cause creaking or squeaking.

If your skewer is not tight on your rear wheel it can cause squeaking noises.