How to fix creaking noises in the cockpit

An initial creaking or cracking is not uncommon with carbon cockpits. In most cases, however, the noises can be quickly fixed with a little carbon paste.

• 4 mm hex key
• Torque wrench incl. bits
• Carbon paste
• Clean cloth

Both the one-piece cockpit and the steerer tube are made of carbon. Its material properties can cause surface tension, which in turn can lead to annoying creaking or cracking noises. A little carbon paste usually does the trick. Applying it to the fork steerer increases the contact area, thereby reducing surface tension.

In addition, particles in the carbon paste increase friction resistance. This usually allows the torque to be reduced slightly.

• Loosen the side screws on the cockpit and the top cap screw using a suitable hex wrench.
• Remove the top cap, then carefully pull the cockpit off the fork.
• Clean the contact surfaces of the cockpit and steerer tube with a clean cloth.

• Apply a thin layer of carbon paste to the steerer tube – specially where the cockpit sits.
• Spread the paste so that the area around it doesn’t remain dry.
• Then place the cockpit back onto the steerer tube.

• Reinstall the top cap along with the screw in the cockpit.
• Now tighten the top cap screw very slightly. It adjusts the bearing play and should only be tightened in small increments. The handlebar should turn smoothly and quietly, but there should be no noticeable play in the headset.
• To check the play in the headset, apply the front brake and gently move the bike back and forth. If you don't feel any play between the fork and the steering head (frame) and the handlebar still moves freely, the headset play is adjusted correctly.
   

• Adjust the stem so that it is aligned straight with the tyre.
• Use the hex wrench to tighten the two side bolts on the stem evenly until they are hand-tight.
• Set the torque wrench to the recommended torque and tighten the screws.
• Then check the headset play again.