Suggestions for finding noise I hear while riding

[Ana]

Obviously, the best time to try and find it is not while I'm riding it. But I can't stop looking down or trying to localize the sound while on the bike! How do you find the sounds you hear while riding to repair them?

[Biciclista]

it helps to ride with someone else who is not hard of hearing in a quiet place

[OakLeaf]

You can narrow it down quite a bit with more specifics.

Is it always in the same place in the pedal stroke? If not, is it always in the same place in the pedal stroke in a certain chainring? Does it only happen in particular gears? What kind of noise is it - ticking, squeaking, rubbing, thunking, grinding, pinging, etc? Does it seem like it's being amplified by a hollow space (frame or deep-V rim)? Can you feel anything when it makes the noise?

I assume you've already tried to replicate it on the stand/with the rear wheel elevated, so it's something that happens only under load?

Still, noises can be frustrating. +1 on having someone else watch you ride. They still won't be able to put a stethoscope on it while you're moving, but they'll be able to help observe what gear you're in (especially in the rear), how much load you're placing on various parts when it happens (drivetrain, seat, handlebars), and where you are in the pedal stroke.

[Grog]

Yes, trying to localize/isolate the problem by trial-and-listen is the way to go.

Does it click (or whatever) when I am pedalling?
When I am coasting?
In certain gears?
In a certain chainring?
In the same gear on either of the chainrings?
Are my laces clicking on my crank?
What if I brake and release, do it stop the sound? (Possible brake rub.)
Is my lock on my rack and rubbing on something?

If it goes psssst! it's a flat tire.

After going CRAZY for weeks I finally figured out that the spoke-protector disk on my bike is vibrating and making awful sounds. I got off the bike and moved the disk with my fingers. Sure enough, that's what was making the sound. It's still vibrating but now I know what it is and it doesn't drive me crazy anymore. I'll get it removed as soon as possible. (I don't want to break it to remove it.)

[DebW]

More suggestions:

Try different pedals

Try different wheels

See if you can create the noise with the bike standing still but torquing the crank with your foot. I've been able to replicate bottom bracket clunks this way.

[Ana]

Are my laces clicking on my crank?

LOL--one time I heard a sound and it was a clinking sound that troubled me tremendously.

Then I realized it was the keys in my pocket