Creaking noise

bikemonk said:

I have a Giant TCR Advanced bike with full Dura Ace. It has FSA internal headset but lately I noticed a creaking noise when I put weight on the handlebars (danseuse) or when I simply turn it. From what I know internal headset does not need service. I have the bike for almost two years. Do I have to change the headset? Service it in a way?

Thanks in advance.

All headsets need service. It could be dry bearings into the frame, or one of the bearings is toasted. Take it apart, see how smooth the bearings are in your hand. If smooth, pry off the seal and grease in there. Grease between the bearing and where it lives in the frame.

If you are indeed hearing a "creaking" sound, it is most likely not your headset. You can check the condition of your headset by locking your front brake and rocking your bike back and fourth on the floor. If you hear or feel a "knocking" sound, you have a loose headset and should tighten it. If you feel no knocking, next check the tightness of the headset by picking up the front of your bike a foot up off the ground and letting the fork move from the center to each side under its own weight. If it does not easily move under its own weight or feels "grindy" or "stiff", it is too tight. In that case, loosen it. But like I said, it doesn't sound like you have a problem with your headset. What it sounds like is a loose and/or poorly greased stem or stem faceplate. This is very common if the stem is steel. Check by removing all bolts, greasing, and tightening to proper torque. Hope this helps.

bikemonk said:

I have a Giant TCR Advanced bike with full Dura Ace. It has FSA internal headset but lately I noticed a creaking noise when I put weight on the handlebars (danseuse) or when I simply turn it. From what I know internal headset does not need service. I have the bike for almost two years. Do I have to change the headset? Service it in a way?

Thanks in advance.

Check your fork. My brother had a creaking noise for a few weeks. Turns out it was a crack in his carbon forks, the Wolf-SL one on the Cervelo which has since been recalled. If you are taking apart the headset then give the forks a good inspection