Javiatrix

Hey all

Pretty much as per the title, but here's some specifics... I have a noise coming from somewhere round the front hub, it's identical to the sound you get from shimming brakes, or when you've worn pads down on your car.

Here's the important bit - it ONLY occurs when riding at > 7 mph ish, AND when leaning/turning in either direction. So I can be pootling along at ~ 15 mph in a straight line, no issues, but as soon as I put some lean on, or slalom left and right, the noise is there. No vibration or feedback through handlebars...

I've checked all the obvious items - all spokes are even and tight, no leaves stuck anywhere, disc brakes are set perfectly, wheel mounted securely in quick release...

It's a 2012 Specialized Rockhopper, it was last properly serviced in 2013 but has seen no use until a couple of months ago when I've gone crazy on it (me and all the others!!!).

Any thoughts?

Jack

J.C. Koto

It's possible that the hub needs an overhaul, either something may have become loose or worn, allowing the wheel, and by extension the brake disc to shift a bit when leaning, or even just something internally making noise. Grab the rim and wiggle it side-to-side and see how much lateral play there is.

Also check the quick-release skewer tension.

viffer

Sounds like you might have some worn bearings in the front hub. Pretty easy service, you’ll have to pop the old ones out and figure out what size they are. Don’t go crazy with super expensive specialty or ceramic bearings, the local bearing supply or Amazon should be able to sort you out. You can press them in with a simple tool, your skewers or have the local LBS or machine shop pop them in for you. It’s a worthwhile service even if it isn’t necessarily the cause of your noise. I did mine and the wheels spin forever, smooth as butter.

Javiatrix

Thanks a lot guys, I was beginning to suspect something bearing related. I popped the wheel off and turning the axle by hand is not consistent and smooth - bit of resistance and lumpier patches...

I've just fitted an e-motor to the crank, so am taking the trails faster which may have finally tipped it over the edge!

I'll most likely see if I can get a shop to do it for me, as I spent the better part of four days working in that bicycle last week - I'm all bicycled out...!

I'll post back here with the result