When I turn the bars of my road bike, there’s a little rubbing somewhere in the headset. No sticking, but it definitely isn’t smooth. Not apparent when I ride, just noticed when changing out wheels the other day.
Is my headset pitted? Or in need of disassembly and lube, or something else?
Could be any of the above. If you are comfortable wrenching, take the stem off and the fork out and check it out. It may need a good cleaning, but while you are in there, spin the bearings by hand if they feel rough you will need to replace the bearing or headset. If they are smooth, probably a good cleaning will suffice.