Originally Posted by
HillRider
Equally puzzled and agree the above statement makes no sense. However, to modify your posting slightly; "the steerer and top cap never come in contact in any setup" if the steerer is cut to the correct length or sufficient spacers or stem height are provided above the top of the steerer.
I've never read any manufacturer's instructions that caution against having spacers above the top of the stem. In fact, I've have seen several that recommend cutting the steerer long enough to require a spacer above the stem in the interest of having the stem clamp supported full height.
Here are two examples where the instructions specifically state to not put spacers above the stem:
http://cdn.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/...n_Guide_r2.pdf
http://www.cannondale.com/usa/usaeng...plement_en.pdf
In each case either the top cap or compression plug is designed to support the steerer tube from the stem clamping force. I would bet that the Reynolds fork that goes with the compression plug I linked to above has the same warning.
I don't know who makes the OP's fork, but I'm just pointing out that some manufacturers advise against putting a spacer above the stem.