Bottom bracket trouble - how worried should I be?

[Donger]

Every time I get a creak from a bottom bracket I put the bike in for a professional inspection .... ever since this happened to me in 2017 after I ignored the creak for a couple of rides:

I ended up half way across a junction with both pedals aiming downwards. My LBS mechanic had never seen an axle failure quite like it. Creaks now give me the creeps.

 

[SuperGalactian]

Is it possible to arrange to have the bike stationary with the back wheel locked so you can apply pressure to each pedal in turn to see if you can duplicate the creak?

Yes, but pressure via the BB end of the crank, bypassing the pedals. See my OP.

Is the paint cracked on the drive side lug?

Not that I can see. I’ve looked very carefully.

If you have suspicions about any part of the frame try introducing some light oil like paraffin into the area and repeating the creak test - chances are if there's a crack it's quieten down for a bit if lubricated.

Thanks for that idea, I’ll try that.

 

[classic33]

Yes, but pressure via the BB end of the crank, bypassing the pedals. See my OP.

Not that I can see. I’ve looked very carefully.

Thanks for that idea, I’ll try that.

Fair enough, you have the piece to hand to check, I don't. That's my idea out the door though.