Creaking noises TREK Powerfly 5 EMTB

[HoevenDavid]

Hello everyone. I have registered in this EMTB forum because I have some concerns with my EMTB TREK Powerfly 5. For some time now I have had creaking noises coming from the bottom of the bike. Very annoying and since I don't know much about mechanics, maybe someone here has an idea if this is a known problem. Thanks in advance for your answer.

 

[Paulquattro]

Welcome
Start by checking all the bolts
And the seat post as seat posts can cause a lot of creaks .

 

[frankiemtb]

Hi HoevenDavid . Is the bike old ? Bottom bracket bearings last for many years - I wouldn't get too worried yet, but do get the bike checked over by a pro, 2 mins will tell if it's serious or not.​

I've read that OEM pedals can be the cause of the creaking problem - try lubricating them to see it the noise reduces, at least in the short term. If so, buy new pedals - learn how to change them properly - one side will have a reversed thread !​

 

[Stihldog]

The Powerfly models (4-5-7) are sometimes available in Hardtail(HT) or Full Suspension(FS) versions.

If your Powerfly is a (HT) version then I would suspect the seat post, peddles, and saddle. Also check that your chainring and cranks are not loose.This would likely be a LBS fix if you don’t have the tools. (Crank removal tool and castle socket). However, the creak noise could be coming from loose motor mount bolts. Get this checked and fixed asap. Proper torque is important on all bolts.

If your bike is a FS model check the suspension system. The lower pivot bearing/bolt is the main suspect here. Some of the suspension bearings that originally came with Trek bikes were of lower quality. I needed to change mine shortly after I received my Rail 9.7. The creaking hasn’t returned but I need to regularly grease the lower pivot points because I tend to ride through creeks… and it rains here …and I wash my bike…with water only.

Some types of soaps will break down the grease …so be careful. I only use water from the hose on a gentle shower spray.

As far as the seat post, I use some assembly grease (has a very fine grit) so that I can apply the proper torque or less (carbon frame here) so that the dropper doesn’t get crushed from over-torquing.

If this seems a little overwhelming or beyond your scope, have your LBS go over everything to find the creek only. I’m pretty sure you won’t need new handle bar grips or valve caps.