adding an extra spacer to bring up my bars and am unsure if this gap between the top of the steerer tube and top of stem is an issue?
by bbddaawwgg
adding an extra spacer to bring up my bars and am unsure if this gap between the top of the steerer tube and top of stem is an issue?
by bbddaawwgg
7 Comments
I’ve allways been told the gap should be about 2-3mm. Looks like you have a fair bit more on there.
If you put the topcap on and rest the bolt in place without tightening it at all, how much tread is showing on that bolt?
https://preview.redd.it/or0x34gj3fjc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e8cb3fa4170a77eef1e9ebd1b5cd81905d09b705
Yes, the top of the steerer should be above the upper clamping bolt on the stem, otherwise it’s not doing anything much to clamp the stem
ehh what s the worst it can happen. i say it s alright
The gap itself, while not ideal, is workable in regards to snugging things down and presetting the headset bearing… granted, the top cap bolt reaches and engages the threads on the star fangled nut.
That said, I prefer to have my top bolt lower than the top of the steerer tube. I would not run this for that reason.
Just to add, that although it doesn’t look like a carbon steerer, it may just be an insert and a lot of manufacturers recommend a spacer above the stem so may be worth checking the manufacturers instructions or posting make and model for further clarification.
You should rather get a different stem to elevate your bars. A positive stem is better than botching on critical parts. I’d also use a spacer on top of the stem. They often offer a better surface for the topcap and they come in so many different heights which makes a proper assembly rather easy. In your picture the upper bolt has nothing to clamp on i’d never do that.
I always prefer to have the whole stem on the steerer, and use a spacer on top for the headset preload.