SB20 - Clicking and Rubbing Noises
Just about everyone who rides indoors will eventually hear clicking or scraping noises. Some noises are inconsequential. Others can represent a serious issue.
Let's take a look at some of the most common noise complaints with the Stages SB20 smart bike.
Parts
Before getting started, here are some key SB20 part names:
Flywheel Rubbing against Plastic Cover
Manufacturing variances, heat and wear can cause the right plastic cover to make rubbing noises as the flywheel spins. These noises persist after pedalling stops.
You can eliminate the problem by trimming the right plastic cover as shown above.
Flywheel Cogs Rubbing against Front Cover Fastener
Adjusting drive belt tension can move the front axle forward causing it to rub or scrape against the metal fasteners holding the front cover in place.
To verify: Remove the front cover. Look at the front cogs. Do they rub against the front cover fasteners when pedalling.
Note: Removing the front cover can cause noises to stop. This is another indication that one of the fasteners is rubbing.
You can file the fasteners as shown above to eliminate associated rubbing sounds.
Right Crank Rubbing against Plastic Cover
The right crank can rub against the right cover if it's not properly positioned.
Belt Noises
The drive belt must be properly aligned with correct tension. If not, you can hear grinding or humming noises and feel increased vibration while pedalling.
Here's how to adjust your belt: Stages SB20 - Drive Belt Adjustments.
Loose Cranks
Loose cranks can create a clicking or tapping noise on each stroke.
Tighten the crank bolts with a 10mm hex wrench.
The bolts and axle are steel so you can torque them to 55-60 Nm. Both sides are tightened by turning the crank bolt clockwise and removed by turning counter-clockwise. (i.e., normal direction).
Bad Pedals
If you are like me, you can be tempted to use cheap or previously enjoyed pedals on your indoor bike. The result can be a clicking noise similar to a loose crank. Try a different set of pedals and you might be surprised.
Remember that the left pedal is removed by turning it clockwise. Here's is how I remember: One Crank has Reversed Threads - Which one?
Bottom Bracket Issues
The SB20 bottom bracket is well made but can occasionally fail.
Bad bottom brackets are pretty easy to identify. They will exhibit one or more of the following behaviours:
- Grinding that feels like sand in the bearing when rotated slowly.
- Excessive play when laterally pushing the cranks side to side.
- Wobbling when riding - especially when pushing hard.
Here's how to service and replace your BB: SB20 - Replacing the Bottom Bracket.
Other Flywheel Noises
Clicking and grinding noises near the flywheel axle can be a sign of bearing or clutch issues.
Here's how to remove the flywheel: Replace flywheel SB20 smart bike from Stages Cycling.
The two flywheel bearing are a standard size and easy to replace. Undo the pre-load locknuts and remove the axle to get access to the bearings.
But there's more. Like many exercise bikes, the SB20 uses a "roller clutch" in place of the ratcheting freewheel used in outdoor bikes. It is a sealed bearing that "catches" only when you pedal forward.
When the roller clutch is starting to fail you will hear slight rumbling sounds while coasting. In the worst case, you will feel some slipping under heavy load. Here's a video that describes how they work: One-Way Roller Clutch Operation Explained. The roller clutch is positioned near the center of the axle between the bearings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my SB20 bike be damaged with sweat 💧?
A: It's probably worse that you think. Wiping down your bike after every ride is a good idea. Here are some additional things to think about: Let's Talk About Sweat.
Q: I can't connect to Zwift 🛜. Now what?
A: Zwift has some SB20 bugs that have been around for years. You could also have wireless issues. See: SB20 - Won't Connect with Wireless and SB20 - Can't Connect to Zwift.
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