Originally Posted by
NoWhammies
@
jadocs the noise does not get louder depending on the side I'm leaning on. The noise DOES get louder and more frequent a) the dirtier the cassette gets and b) as more power is applied to pedals.
I suspect it is the hub too, which is why I want to get the cassette off. I'd like to give the freehub a cleaning, and the cassette a solid cleaning too.
I suspect the lock ring has been over tightened through a combination of the LBS and me checking to make sure a loose cassette is not the issue for the noise.
Your hub probably does need a good cleaning, but I’m still inclined to believe you have a spoke issue. Have you tried lightly squeezing the spokes in your hand (two at a time)...work your way around the wheel. If you hear the slightest of pings (it will most likely come from where it attaches to the hub) you have a loose spoke.
Edit: misread your reply, still think it’s a spoke though based on the description of the sound.