Our “top five” list of symptoms of worn suspension bearings:
Symptoms: On Compression/Extension: Audible creaking or squeaking sounds during suspension compression or extension.
Consistency: The noise occurs consistently with each suspension movement.
Potential Wear or Damage: Look for signs of rust or corrosion on the pivot bearings, bushings, axles or linkage.
Things you can try at home:
Clean and Lubricate Pivot Points: Regularly clean and lubricate pivot points and bearings using appropriate bike-specific lubricants to reduce friction and eliminate squeaking or creaking noises.
Inspect for Wear or Damage: Check pivot hardware and bearings for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Replace worn-out or damaged components promptly.
Symptoms:
Lateral Movement: Noticeable side-to-side movement of the suspension, especially under lateral pressure.
Rocking Sensation: Feeling the bike wobbling or rocking excessively during turns or cornering.
Potential Wear or Damage:
Worn Bearings or Bushings: Excessive play can be caused by worn-out pivot bearings or bushings. Check for visible wear or gaps in the bearings or bushings.
Remedies:
Tighten Pivot Hardware: Ensure all pivot bolts and hardware are securely tightened according to the manufacturer’s specifications to minimize lateral movement and play.
Replace Worn Bearings: If excessive play persists, replace worn-out pivot bearings and hardware to restore proper alignment and reduce movement.
Symptoms:
Reduced Travel: The suspension doesn’t utilize its full travel or feels bottomed out easily.
Harsh Ride: Increased rigidity and harshness during compression, causing discomfort and reduced control.
Potential Wear or Damage:
Leaking Seals: Oil or grease leaks around the suspension seals could indicate damaged seals, affecting performance. Check for oil residue on stanchions.
Remedies:
Inspect and Replace Damaged Parts: Thoroughly inspect the suspension system for worn or damaged components such as bushings, bearings, or seals, and replace as needed to restore optimal performance.
Rebound and Compression Adjustment: Adjust rebound and compression settings following manufacturer recommendations to fine-tune suspension performance based on rider preferences and terrain.
Symptoms:
Resistance: Experiencing significant resistance while setting the sag, requiring excessive pressure adjustments.
Inconsistent Sag: Difficulty in maintaining a consistent and accurate sag value despite repeated adjustments.
Potential Wear or Damage:
Dry or Contaminated Seals: Dry or contaminated seals may cause resistance when adjusting sag. Inspect the seals for dryness, dirt, or debris.
Remedies:
Clean and Lubricate Suspension Components: Clean and lubricate suspension components to reduce friction and ensure smooth movement, making sag adjustments easier and more accurate.
Check for Binding: Inspect the suspension for any signs of binding or resistance, addressing any issues that may be hindering sag adjustments.
Symptoms:
Increased Resistance: Notable resistance during compression or extension, making it harder to utilize the suspension travel.
Lack of Smooth Movement: Jerky or uneven movement during compression or extension.
Lubricate Suspension Components: Apply appropriate lubricant to pivot points and seals, ensuring smooth compression and extension of the suspension.
Service or Overhaul Suspension: Consider a professional suspension service or overhaul to address internal components, replenishing lubrication and ensuring optimal functioning.
Potential Wear or Damage:
Lack of Lubrication: Insufficient or dried-out lubrication in pivot points may cause stiffness during compression or extension. Check for signs of lack of lubrication.
Remedies:
Lubricate Suspension Components: Apply appropriate lubricant to pivot points and seals, ensuring smooth compression and extension of the suspension.
Service or Overhaul Suspension: Consider a professional suspension service or overhaul to address internal components, replenishing lubrication and ensuring optimal functioning.