Why Does My BMX Bike Click When I Pedal? (Reasons & Solutions)

If you’re an avid BMX rider, you may have experienced an annoying clicking sound when you pedal your bike. 

This sound can be frustrating, especially if you need clarification on what’s causing it. 

Fortunately, there are several reasons why your BMX bike may be clicking when you pedal, most of which are easily fixable. 

In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of clicking on BMX bikes and provide solutions to help you get a quiet pedal stroke.

One of the most common reasons for a clicking noise is a loose or worn-out bottom bracket, which is the component that connects the pedal cranks to the bike frame. Other potential causes include a loose or damaged chain, worn-out pedals or pedal bearings, loose or defective spokes, or a loose or faulty cassette. 

Identifying the root cause of the clicking sound and addressing it can help ensure a safer and smoother riding experience.

This article will explore eight common reasons your BMX bike might be clicking when you pedal and provide solutions for each issue.

Eight Reasons Why BMX Bike Click When You Pedal With Solutions

BMX bikes are designed to be ridden hard and often, but even the most well-maintained bike can develop issues over time. 

One common issue many BMX riders experience is a clicking sound when pedalling. 

This clicking can be caused by various factors, ranging from minor issues to more serious problems. 

Here are eight possible reasons why your BMX bike makes clicking sounds while you pedal, along with solutions to fix the issue.

#1. Loose Crank Arms:

If the crank arms are not tightly secured to the bottom bracket, they can wobble and make clicking noises. 

To fix this issue, use a crank puller tool to remove the crank arms and clean the bottom bracket. 

Then re-install the crank arms, making sure to tighten them properly.

#2. Loose Pedals:

Similarly, loose pedals can also cause clicking sounds when you pedal. 

The fix is to remove the pedals, clean the threads, and re-installing them, ensuring tightening them securely.

#3. Worn Bottom Bracket:

Over time, the bearings in the bottom bracket can wear out, causing clicking or creaking sounds when you pedal. 

To fix this problem, replace the bottom bracket with a new one.

#4. Loose Chainring Bolts:

If the bolts that attach the chainring to the crank are loose, they can cause clicking sounds when you pedal. 

The fix is to use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

#5. Worn Chain or Cassette:

A worn chain or cassette can also cause clicking sounds when you pedal, especially if the chain is skipping over the teeth of the cassette. 

The solution is to replace the chain or cassette with new ones.

#6. Loose Hub Bearings:

If the bearings in the bike hub are loose, they can cause clicking sounds when you pedal. 

The solution is to disassemble the hub, clean the bearings, and re-pack them with fresh grease.

#7. Loose Spokes:

Loose spokes can also cause clicking sounds, especially if they are rubbing against each other or the hub or rim. 

To fix the loose spokes, tighten the spokes to the correct tension.

#8. Pedal Bearings Worn Out:

Finally, if the bearings in the pedals are worn out, they can cause clicking sounds when you pedal. 

The solution is to replace the pedals with new ones.

Here’s a table showing different sounds BMX bikes make and what they might mean.

Sound	Possible Cause
Clicking or ticking noise when pedalingñ	A loose or worn chain
Squeaking noise when pedaling	Worn bottom bracket or pedals, dry chain
Grinding or scraping noise when pedaling	Misaligned chain or derailleur, worn cassette or chainring
Creaking noise when turning the handlebars	Loose or worn headset
Squealing or screeching noise from brakes	Worn brake pads or contaminated brake surface
Popping or cracking noise when landing jumps or doing tricks	Stressed or damaged frame or components

Note that these are just some possible causes for each sound. It’s always best to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose any issues with your bike.

Why Does a New BMX Bike Click When You Pedal?

It may be due to the bike’s components settling in, which can cause some initial noise. 

Additionally, it may be due to the cables stretching or gears that need adjusting. Another reason could be dirt or debris in the bottom bracket or pedal spindle. 

Finally, a clicking sound could indicate a more severe issue, such as a defective component or worn-out bearings. 

It’s essential to have a professional mechanic check the bike if the clicking sound persists after some initial use.

Here are some of the most common reasons a new BMX bike clicks when you pedal.

#1. New Parts Breaking In 

When you first get a new BMX bike, it’s common for the parts to click a bit as they break in. 

The parts are still settling in and can cause minor rubbing or creaking. It’s usually nothing to worry about and will go away independently after a few rides.

#2. Loose Bolts 

Another common reason for clicking is loose bolts. As you ride your new BMX bike, the bolts can become loose and cause clicking sounds when you pedal. 

Check all the bolts on your bike, including the pedals, crank arms, and chainring bolts, and tighten them as needed.

#3. Chain Issues 

If your new BMX bike clicks when you pedal, it could be an issue with the chain. Check that you correctly lubricated the chain and that it’s not too tight or loose. 

A loose chain can cause clicking sounds as it bounces around, while a tight chain can cause friction and clicking as it rubs against the gears.

#4. Bottom Bracket Issues 

The bottom bracket is the bike part that connects the pedals to the frame. If the bottom bracket is loose or worn out, it can cause clicking sounds when you pedal. 

If you suspect an issue with the bottom bracket, it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect and replace it if necessary.

#5. Pedal Issues 

Clicking sounds can also be caused by issues with the pedals themselves. Ensure to tighten the pedals properly to the cranks and that the bearings are in good condition. 

If the pedals are worn out or damaged, they may need to be replaced.

#6. Crank Arm Issues 

The crank arms connect the pedals to the chainring and can cause clicking sounds if they’re loose or worn out. 

Check that the crank arms are appropriately tightened to the bottom bracket and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage.

#7. Spoke Issues 

Loose or broken spokes could also cause clicking sounds as you pedal. Ensure that you tension all the spokes on your wheels and that none are broken or damaged.

#8. Headset Issues 

The headset is the bike part that connects the fork to the frame and can cause clicking sounds if it’s loose or worn out. 

Ensure you properly tighten and lubricate the headset and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage.

#9. Brake Issues 

If your BMX bike has brakes, clicking sounds could be caused by issues with the brake system. 

Check the brake pads and ensure that you properly align them. Also, lubricate and adjust the brake cables properly. 

#10. Wheel Issues 

Clicking sounds can also be caused by issues with the wheels themselves. Check that the wheels are properly trued, and the hubs are in good condition. 

Worn or faulty hubs can cause clicking sounds as you pedal.

#11. Frame Issues 

Although rare, clicking sounds can also be caused by issues with the frame itself. Properly align the frame and ensure no cracks or other signs of damage.

#12. Improper Assembly 

If you did not assemble your new BMX bike correctly, it could be causing clicking sounds when you pedal. 

Ensure you install all the parts correctly and properly tighten and lubricate everything. If you need help assembling your bike, it’s best to have a professional mechanic do it.

Should I Worry About the Clicking Sound From My Bmx Bike?

Yes, you should be concerned about the clicking sound from your BMX bike, as it could indicate a potential issue that needs to be addressed.

Moreover, it often depends on the cause of the clicking sound. In some cases, it may be a minor issue that doesn’t affect the performance or safety of the bike. 

However, if the clicking sound is due to a more serious problem, such as a loose crank, it is important to address the issue to prevent damage. 

Having a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose any unusual sounds or issues with a bike is always suitable.

Ultimately, if you hear clicking sounds from your BMX bike when you pedal, it’s not always a cause for alarm. 

Here are some things to remember:

#1. Identify the Cause:

The first step is to identify the cause of the clicking sound. 

It could be due to loose parts, worn-out components, or other issues. Take the time to investigate and isolate the cause of the clicking.

#2. Determine Severity:

Once you’ve identified the cause of the clicking sound, it’s important to determine its severity. 

If the clicking is due to a loose bolt or other minor issues, it may not require immediate attention.

However, it should be addressed immediately if the clicking is due to a more serious problem, such as a worn-out chain or damaged bearings.

#3. Consider Maintenance:

Proper bike maintenance is crucial to prevent clicking sounds from occurring in the first place. 

Regularly inspect and clean your bike, tighten loose bolts, and replace worn components.

#4. Seek Professional Help:

If you need clarification on the cause or severity of the clicking sound, it’s always best to seek the advice of a professional bike mechanic. 

They can help diagnose the issue, which can be concerning, and commend the appropriate repairs.

In summary, a clicking sound from your BMX bike when you pedal shouldn’t necessarily cause an alarm. However, it’s important to investigate and determine the cause of the sound. 

Proper maintenance and seeking professional help when necessary can help keep your bike running smoothly and prevent future issues.