Squeaky front fork

[autobahnzoom]

I am a newbie (on the forum and to any level of serious biking) and this is my first post, glad there is a useful forum for bikers..

I got a new bike couple of weeks back-a Schwinn Graft. (full suspension)
However since using it for a couple of days I am hearing squeaking from the front fork on uneven/wavy surface. And a "ting" noise when I put my full weight on or going over bumps.
The bike has a Suntour XCT fork and disc brakes on front.
I haven't adjusted the handle or I haven't made any other change after I bought, that could lead to these noises.

Q1. What could the problem be? Is this something I can fix?

Q2. How often do I have to lubricate the forks? And what is the best lubricant? Are there different types of lubricants suitable for summer and winter? (asking since summer is almost up here in Toronto)

[FBinNY]

It could be simply that your sliding fork stanchions need some lube, or that the seals are squeaking (same issue). Beyond that it depends on the fork. Many low end forks have steel springs inside, and you could be hearing the coil move within the stanchions.

Start with a bit of stanchion lube, which is available at bike shops, or you could fool around with some silicone grease/wax products if you already have them. If that doesn't cure it, let someone knowledgeable listen, as the exact sound will be meaningful to anyone who knows about suspension forks.

[nhluhr]

Since it's a new bike, your dealer should be able to help you with the problem for free.

[autobahnzoom]

Thanks for the quick replies FBinNY and nhluhr!

I will see if the dealer can have a look at it. Not sure if they have experts, it was not a specialty shop. (it was from Canadian Tire, more of a department store)
Else I will follow the advice from FBinNY. And report back how I fared with the DIY.

It could be simply that your sliding fork stanchions need some lube, or that the seals are squeaking (same issue). Beyond that it depends on the fork. Many low end forks have steel springs inside, and you could be hearing the coil move within the stanchions.

Start with a bit of stanchion lube, which is available at bike shops, or you could fool around with some silicone grease/wax products if you already have them. If that doesn't cure it, let someone knowledgeable listen, as the exact sound will be meaningful to anyone who knows about suspension forks.