Originally Posted by
thumpism
Correct me if I'm wrong, but it appears that the "conventional" stem on the right has a sizable cutout in the front above where the bolt threads in. If so, that much material removed from the clamp area would probably weaken it more than I'd like, and I seldom yank on the bars. If this photo effect is just a trick of the light, then disregard.
Some stems, e.g. the Sakae Ringyo "Royal" were milled at the factory in this manner. I've been using one for years with no problems.
