Rear Wheel Clicking Noise While Coasting
At first, the rear wheel clicking noise while coasting was smooth and subtle. It was pretty sweet to hear, if you know what I mean, especially when the breeze around you calmed your mind.
Then, the noise gradually grew louder. You can say goodbye to that melodious clicking in a few days or weeks, replaced by the thought-breaking and mind-bending noise.
It gets worse! So, why does it occur, and what should you do to minimize it? This article will give you some pointers. Read ahead, fellows.
Reasons and Solutions to Clicking Noise While Coasting
But if you are a beginner and have no clue about the term ‘coasting,’ here is a brief explanation. Coasting is when you stop pedaling and let the bike rely on free-rolling. Naturally, this motion causes light clicking noise, which is normal.
However, it results from a further impending problem when the noise gets hard to ignore. Below are some primary reasons why you hear that annoying clicking noise.
Do not worry; the ways to fix it are also specified.
1. Tensed Pawls in a Bike
This is the main reason the clicking noise often increases. Pawls have to run through the teeth. It allows spinning motion that continues even when coasting.
During this motion, the pawls must latch on so you can maneuver the bike swiftly. Nevertheless, there will be tension if the spring-loaded mechanisms are free from catching or fail to latch.
It causes the clicking sound due to the pawls positioned too high to prevent hitting.
How to Resolve It?
You have to take the bike to a nearby mechanic to adjust the tension in the pawls.
2. The Chain Is Possibly Dry
Some of us overlook the regular greasing of the bike chain. It leads to early wearing out and eventually generates loud clicking noise.
How to Resolve It?
Keep a bottle of lube around, and remember to lubricate the chain as often as possible. Do not forget to clean the chain before greasing.
3. See if the Chain Brushes Against Front Derailleur
This is an infrequent occasion, but it is not unheard of. The reason is the misadjusted derailleur.
How to Resolve It?
You should readjust the device to allow repositioning of the chain as effectively as conceivable.
4. Low Maintenance of the Chain
Once again, the chain must be looked after because your bike riding experience relies on its efficiency. If you ride aggressively or at high gear, there is a chance the chain is overworked.
Bike chains wear out, too, after a certain time.
How to Resolve It?
Instead of riding the bike with potential accident risk, invest in a new chain if the older one is too worn out. It will minimize the clicking noise when coasting.
5. Is the Chain Misaligned?
Sometimes the issue is a simple misaligned chain. It can be because of the mismatched wheel or chainring. So, what should you do?
How to Resolve It?
Realign the chain, of course! You can either show it to a mechanic or do it yourself.
6. Uncoiled Derailleur Pulleys
This can also be the reason behind the clicking noise while coasting. There is an easy solution for it.
How to Resolve It?
You have to unmount the derailleur pulleys and grease each pulley. Then reassemble them accordingly.
7. Loose Pedals
Yes, they can cause clicking noise, too, even when you are not pedaling.
How to Resolve It?
Ensure well-tightened pedals to avoid future clicking sounds.
8. Worn Out/Loose Brakes
Brakes are the most sensitive part of a bicycle. It can also produce irritating noise if the brake pads are worn out or loose.
How to Resolve It?
You must replace the brake pads if they are beyond repair and worn out. However, readjustment is possible to the loose brake pads.
9. Loose Spokes
Another probable reason is the spokes rubbing each other due to the loose fitment at the intersection.
How to Resolve It?
You can try various methods. Greasing is a great option where the problem is. Readjustment of the loose spokes will also minimize the noise. Plus, replacing the wheel is another way if they are too worn out.
Conclusion
There are many reasons you can experience the rear wheel clicking noise while coasting. As long as you can figure out the core issue, navigating to a solution will not take long.
The next time you find this problem arising, take your time inspecting the bike to pinpoint the noise origin. Also, keep greasing the bike components whenever you can!
This video might help you!