Symptoms
- Click happens once per pedal rotation
- Noise gets louder when pedaling harder
- Clicking seems to come from one pedal specifically
- Noise changes with seat position or standing pedaling
Likely causes
- CommonLoose pedal in the crank armPedals can work loose from their threads over time, especially with vigorous riding.
- CommonWorn or dry pedal bearingsPedal bearings dry out and click or grind without regular lubrication.
- PossibleLoose crank arm boltThe bolt holding the crank arm to the axle can loosen and cause a knock with each rotation.
- PossibleSomething caught in the flywheel or beltA loose screw, sticker edge, or debris can click against the flywheel each rotation.
- Less commonWorn drive belt or chainA stretched belt or chain can slap or click against the frame.
What to do
- Stop pedaling and check by hand whether either pedal has any wobble or looseness in its threads.
- Tighten each pedal into its crank arm firmly with the correct wrench (pedals thread in opposite directions on each side).
- Check the crank arm bolts at the center of the bike and tighten if loose.
- Spin the flywheel by hand slowly and listen for a click at a consistent point, which suggests debris or a loose part touching it.
- Look underneath the bike's cover (if easily removable) for anything obviously loose or rubbing.
- Apply a drop of bike-appropriate lubricant to pedal bearings if the click sounds dry rather than mechanical.
- If tightening pedals and cranks doesn't stop it, the noise may be internal to the flywheel bearing and need a technician.
Tools and parts
- Pedal wrench or Allen wrench
- Bike lubricant
When to call a pro
Call a technician if tightening the pedals and crank doesn't resolve the click, since an internal bearing may need replacing.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.