Crank bolts loose? Huh?
 

Did my weekly lube and maintenance today. While wiping the outer crank ring I noticed it felt a little loose, which isn't good, so I tightened the crank bolt where it was loose. Then I checked the other three outward-facing crank bolts to find that they were loose too! The one inward-facing bolt connecting to the crank arm wasn't loose.

Still, what the hey? I never thought I'd see the day that four crank bolts all got loose. I didn't feel anything unusual on my ride yesterday, but I'll have to compare how it feels with the group ride I'm going on right now.

Weird? Weird!


Edit: By the way, I'm pretty sure this means I ride my bike lots.

Do you mean chainring bolts? I have found that they are often not tight enough on a new crank. Folks tighten them just against the friction on the nut, but you actually have to hold the nut to tighten them properly. Its why they make a tool for that slot.

D'oh! Chain ring bolts, yes. Actually, a wide enough flat-head screwdriver would do the trick. I'll have to remember to use one of those next time.

Big screw driver works, but is also good for accidental impalement. That is why I got the $6 tool. Well, in truth, my largest screwdriver wasn't big enough. I probably would have risked the stabbing.

Right ^^^^ the specific chainring bolt tool is VERY useful! I highly suggest having one in your toolbox if you do your own maintenance...I've got a couple of Shimano brand one's, not sure who else makes them. I'm sure a quick call to your LBS and they could find you one if a jiff.

Be very careful with aluminum bolts. They strip very easily. Use loc tite blue.