Hi, I am replacing a stem for a shorter one. I have never done this before. Which of the three below is correct or are none correct? Thanks.


Before replacing the stem, just after removing the top cap. Is the gap from the top of the stem to the steering tube too high?


After installing the new stem and removing one spacer.



After installing the new stem, removing 2 spacers, replacing one spacer on the top. Is this preferred, I believe I read somewhere that you have to do this for carbon steering tubes, and it is a good idea on steel and aluminum too. Now it is more than 1/4" lower, not sure that is what I want.


Thanks for any input.

Mike