Troubleshooting › Noises

Rattles over bumps: causes and fixes

Drop the bike a few centimeters onto its tires and listen. Then hold different parts while you repeat it.

Check it on your own bike

1. Loose fender, rack or bottle cage bolts · Most likely

   Check every accessory bolt with a hex key. Use blue threadlocker on fender and rack bolts.

   Fix: Install full fenders · Install a rear rack · Install bottle cages

2. Chain slapping the frame · Most likely

   Shift to a middle gear; if the rattle stops, it was chain slap.

   Fix: Adjust rear derailleur (limits + indexing) · Replace chain (with sizing)

3. Loose headset · Sometimes

   Rock the bike with the front brake on and feel for a knock.

   Fix: Adjust headset play · Adjust a threaded headset

4. Cable housing tapping the frame · Sometimes

   Add frame protector or cable donuts where housing touches the frame.

   Fix: Replace shift cable and housing · Replace brake cable and housing

5. Loose wheel or brake caliper · Sometimes

   Re-tighten quick releases and caliper bolts.

   Fix: Use a quick release properly · Install a thru-axle wheel · Center and adjust mechanical disc brake