Originally Posted by
vasuvius
I just removed the headset bearings, cleaned them, regreased and installed. the bearing cartridge is stainless steel and has some signs of rust but the bearing moves freely and there is no sign of any creakiness :-(
the bearing is marked "Cane Creek 1 1/8 36 x 45" "HSS20130 Steel"
so, back to diagnosis mode.
Regrease everything and reinstall. the creaking could have just been coming from the cartridge contact with the steerer tube and/or cups.