Hi all,

My bike squeaks when the chain is on the large chainring. It doesn't squeak when the chain is on the small chainring. It also always squeaks when pedaling backwards.

It is a 1987 Bianchi Campione d'Italia, 2x7spd with original 42/52 chainrings, currently averaging 62 miles a week. I recently cleaned the chain and gears, and oiled the chain. The chain is not worn out (according to my chain checker tool) and the teeth of the chainrings don't look too bad. Plus I mostly ride on the small chainring. My most used gears are 42x13, 14, and 15.

I thought it odd that it would only squeak on the large chainring and pedaling backwards. Any thoughts on what needs to be addressed?

Thanks in advance!

Try lubing the jockey wheels on the rear derailleur.

The chain alignment variation when on the outer ring may be placing different stresses on the freewheel. If it always makes a noise when back pedaling maybe the freewheel needs attention/replacement?

Thanks, I'll try it.

How would one determine when a freewheel needs replacing?

IF the fault lies with the freewheel you could check out YouTube. RJ The bike guy has uploaded a video describing how to relube etc. I can't post a link yet as I'm a new member.

Oh I'm subscribed to RJ The Bike Guy on YouTube! His videos are great. I'll have a look for that one.

Updating this for posterity. I recently ran new shift cables so I took the opportunity to remove the RD and clean it. Removed the jockey wheels, opened em up, cleaned and oiled them. Put everything back together and the squeaks are gone.