[Not So Fast]

My SJ 120 is freaking creaking in the front end. I cleaned and greased the headset and steerer. I took it to the LBS and watched them do the same thing. It still creaks. I've notice some play in my Fox Talas. LBS says the fork needs a tune up (replace bushings). Could the creaking be coming from the fork? Any other suggestions? The LBS will look at my rig tomorrow. They told me that they were gonna replace parts and by process of elimination determine where the creak is coming from.:madman:

 

[Torque Wrench]

Been There . . .

I had the same exact problem on a 05 SJ 120. I heard a creaking sound near the head tube when I got on the brakes hard. The problem was weld penetration where the head tube, top tube and down tube were joined. The ends of the tubes inside the frame were rubbing together under heavy braking. The LBS had experience with the problem. They poured linseed oil into the tubes and the noise was gone. They assured me the frame was structurally sound and not to worry. So far, so good. I think there are small holes in the bottom bracket and head tube where you can add the oil. If you try it be sure to drain the oil well when you are done.

 

[plussa]

Take the front wheel off, turn the bike upside down and gently twist the fork legs in opposite directions (forward/backward). If the fork creaks, the crown is busted and needs to be replaced. I had this issue with the Talas on my 05 SJ 120.

Have you cleaned, greased and retightened all stem bolts?

If the frame is making the sound, I think it should be replaced under warranty. Healthy weld seams shouldn't make any noise.

 

[245044]

I'm not sure about the cable routing on the 05, but the front deraileur cable end at the headtube was creaking on mine when I turned. Almost sounded like a crank noise. A little lube and all is well. Just a suggestion.

 

[Not So Fast]

Cleaned bolts

I've cleaned and greased all the bolts, steerer post was cleaned and lubed, headset was replaced, spacers cleaned and lubed. I'll try oiling the welds and also check the fork as suggested above:thumbsup:

 

[Mervyn_b]

...... If you try it be sure to drain the oil well when you are done.

Ok, it makes sense but any particular reason, perhaps if otherwise, things will get messy, right?

Thx

 

[Torque Wrench]

That's right Mervyn_b, It's just about the mess. The oil will make its way to the bottom bracket and collect dirt for a long time as it slowly leaks out.

 

[JSQ]

I've experienced the same problem. It was driving me nuts, but yesterday, when I did another inspection I found that there was a crack in my Chris King headset! This most likely was the reason for the creaking. At least I hope so. Must change the headset for another to be sure. I guess the King headset isn't so special after all

 

[jut8]

I'm not sure about the cable routing on the 05, but the front deraileur cable end at the headtube was creaking on mine when I turned. Almost sounded like a crank noise. A little lube and all is well. Just a suggestion.

I had the same problem with my 06 Stumpy, i thought it was the head set, but just as this guy said, sure enough it was just the cable end by my head tube, i thought it was a bearing for sure, check this first before you tear the bike part:thumbsup:

 

[jackwall5]

Got to that stage where I'm convinced I have a creak also. S SJ 120 Pro '06. There is a huge amount of information on this forum and I just wanted to say a 'Thank all' to you for sharing your experience. I'll be starting with the easy to check stuff like the cable runners near the stem, before going for the more involved checks like head sets. The Fork check is a bit daunting .... but it has to be done right!!!!

Ride Safe

 

[endurowanker]

My SJ 120 is freaking creaking in the front end. I cleaned and greased the headset and steerer. I took it to the LBS and watched them do the same thing. It still creaks. I've notice some play in my Fox Talas. LBS says the fork needs a tune up (replace bushings). Could the creaking be coming from the fork? Any other suggestions? The LBS will look at my rig tomorrow. They told me that they were gonna replace parts and by process of elimination determine where the creak is coming from.:madman:

i had the same exact problem with my 2005 SJ expert 120 with a talas fork.

turns out the fork crown was loose. fox fixed it free of charge.