Originally Posted by TLCFORBIKES

The top cap may be decorative but the star nut/compressor/expander that the top cap is attached to is not decorative. By just using the 1 or 2 pinch bolts to keep the proper tension on the headset -- the headset will come loose during the first ride. It will not work. There are compressors that suck (spring under top cap style). These compressors suck because the headset keeps coming loose (at least easier than non-spring style). The headset keeps coming loose because the compressor looses spring tension. It takes consistent precise pressure from both pinch bolt/bolts and screw holding the top cap to keep the headset working correctly. You need the top cap to come in contact with either spacer or stem or the bike will not handle properly.