-Incubus-

I keep hearing this weird cracking/ clicking sound on my rear wheel as it spins. I've looked around the tire and forks to see if there is anything protruding the wheel's rotation, but there is nothing. The only thing the wheel touches is the lever that holds it in place.

I tried removing the wheel and spinning just the gears, but I hear nothing. I also looked at the rod/lever that goes through the wheel and it is completely smootch.

After placing the wheel back on, I spun it and it makes the sound again. What could be making this noise? Should I be worried?

nwbikeman

Take the wheel back off and feel the axle, is it loose, bent or broken. Also look for a loose or broken spoke. Wheels should ot make that kind of noise.

Puget Pounder

Have you spun the wheel out of the drop outs to see if it makes the same noise? There could be a horribly pitted bearing.

-Incubus-

The axis I inspected as it's completely straight. I tightened the axle as well as tight as I could and the sound remains. Maybe it is a bearing, I'll have to take it to the shop wouldn't I?

-Incubus-

I spun it out of the drop outs but without the axle. I'll try with the axle next.

davidad

When you close the quick release it compresses the axle and is the final part of the bearing adjustment. When the wheel is out of the dropouts there should be a small amount of play in the bearings.
This assumes that you have a cup and cone hub.

-Incubus-

Yea, there was a damaged bearing. I have it in the shop now. :] thanks guys.

Puget Pounder

BOOYA! $5 for my services please