Creaking front wheel

[Chris S]

The spokes in my front wheel quite often creak or twang as I'm riding along. Is this a sign of imminent spoke failure? The (26x1 3/8) wheel must be at least 20 years old but it hasn't been in constant use.

PS I've already checked for other sources of the noise.

 

[Scilly Suffolk]

I'm no expert, but I would think that it's a sign that they need tightening.

 

[spandex]

Just check that they are tight but they should be after 20 years!! and also put a drip of oil on each of the spoke crossings as most of the time the noise comes from the spokes rubbing as the wheel flex's.

 

[accountantpete]

As above - just check the area on the spokes where they cross and make sure that the twanging hasn't worn the spoke (you would feel a flat spot).