In pursuit of the elusive creak

[in4]

We've all had one I guess but where is it coming from? Mine still remains a mystery bur for your amusement:

Aurally it seems to eminate from around the bb area and is mostly heard when I'm riding up hill and putting a bit of pressure on the cranks; it dissappears when I'm 'on the flat' I started off thinking hmm time to check pedals as there seemed to be a little play in one. 2 x 13 bearings on the floor later ( why 13 by the way?!) all seems to be ok so the pedal goes back on with no trouble. Lovely. I'm thinking chainring bolts now. Check then all and they seem tight enough. I'm not sure if they should be torqued up but they seem OK. Next I'm thinking that its the sound of a bottle cage against a pump mount but further exploration rules that one out. Cranks? Well they seem fine as do their bolts. There is no horizontal play and no creaking when counter stressed against each other. My creaks do not eminate from my bones or saddle ( I know their respective creaks well) but what the source is I'm yet to find out. None of the above prevented me from enjoying a lovely 40 mile run today although behind the Oakleys I suspect an eyebrow or two was being raised by my fellow riders. Talk about telegraphing your presence! I'll find the wee creakers I'm sure but for now, they remain very elusive.

[mickeg]

I think about 95 percent of my squeaks and creaks are at my pedal to shoe sole interface.  If you wet down your shoe sole with a bit of water (if you see a puddle, stop and step in it), get back on the bike and start pedaling again, if the creak is gone, that suggests that the water lubricated what was squeaking until it dries out later.

[jags]

i have a creak in my sti shoe took me a month to find it and then it was by accident.
so check your shoe where the cleat it attached,if you dont ware cleats i have no idea wher its coming from  and thats the truth


anto.

[Far-Oeuf]

the plastic cup (non drive side) of the (square-taper) bottom bracket creaks, on my current bike, particularly so on hot days.   It's worse uphill as I push harder on the left pedal.

If you're questioning the pedals/shoes, stick some flats on and go for a ride (before you start adjusting/cleaning/etc).

cheers,