Weird bike noise, please help me diagnose it.

Hi everyone. I feel like bike commuters are the best with knowing the kinds of bike noises possible, due to riding in all weathers, lots of distance, and maybe not doing ALL the right maintenance.

So i just bought a brand new Cannondale Topstone 2 and riding home from the store i hear this periodic raspy creak. It’s regular when riding but can be induced at a stop by rocking the bike with front brake locked. The sound can occur with or without pedalling and seems to be at the front.

It doesn’t respond to light brake pressure when moving, but maybe intensifies with a harder stop. The wheel looks absolutely clear (to me) of things dragging or hitting as it rotates.

I think somethings amiss with the front wheel but can’t tell what. I actually mentioned the sound to the sales rep after i test rode it, but they said it was the wheel reflector rattling. I initially agreed it could be that but now after a long ride i really don’t think it’s that and it’s become louder too – but admittedly I haven’t removed the reflector just yet to test but it feels solid and doesn’t creak.

I will contact the shop on Monday but i’d like to be a bit more confident in my request so i don’t get fobbed off so easily.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts or ideas.