Originally Posted by
MichaelW
With quick release systems, the
QR will compress the axle. This takes out a minute amount of slack so people usually leave a tiny amount of slack in the cones. Try feeling for the looseness when mounted on your bike.
+1. With the wheel installed, try to displace the wheel side-to-side with your fingers. If there is no play, then you are good to go. In fact, this test is the most accurate since a) it is in the as-used condition and b) any play in the hub is highly exaggerated at the distance of the rim.