Bicycle Mechanics - new help plz (wheels)

I just bought my first road bike and I love it. but im concerned, I dont know how tight or secure my wheels are suppose dto be. my front wheel is very secure and doesnt wiggle or move at all, but my rear wheel which came assemlbed wiggles back and forth a little bit, and I'm wondering if this is suppose dto do that a bit, and if not.. how to tighten it.. becuase it appears just tighting the quick release type thing doesnt actually fix that. thanks! and I'm new here :) :twitchy:

Two possibilites. One is that you're not using the QR correctly. The other is that the hub's bearings need adjusting.

One way you can tell is to jiggle the rim with your hand on the QR unit head and see if you feel movement. If so, the QR needs adjusting. If not it's wothin the hub.

To adjust the QR, stand the bike straight up on the floor, (maybe have someone hold it for you, or leaning in a doorframe) open the QR, and turn the nut on the left side a bit while testing the tension by closing the lever.

QR's vary but typically you should adjust so you begin to feel resistance about half way, then be able to close it all the way with reasonable force. (Remember you want to be able to open it). Be sure to close it all the way flat with the frame. The tightest spot is before it closes flat, then it actually loosens a bit which is what keeps it closed.

If the QR is fine than it's a hub issue and you'll need to go back to the shop for a free adjustment.

IMO- you should go back anyway, because they should show you how to use a QR, and make a number of user adjustments. Part of buying from a shop is the support provided with the sale, and if they didn't give you basic instruction they haven't finished their job.

thanks. i bought online tbh. im broke.. how can i do this myself? (its not the qr apparently)

Park Tools site shows all you need to know for the adjustment:
http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-help/hub-overhaul-and-adjustment
You'll need cone wrenches (very flat, open-end wrenches) which are pretty cheap. Other than that, it is just about following the instructions and taking your time. As you are broke, you might want to hang on to the Park Tools web site address. Lots of DIY info.

thanks for that tip. just went on my first real ride tonight.... love it! :)