Originally Posted by
HillRider
As long as you don't tighten the stem clamps absurdly tight, the stem shouldn't harm the steerer even if the compression plug isn't aligned with it. You will need a lot of spacers above the stem if the steerer is way too long to allow you to adjust the headset play.
Thanks for the quick reply. I'm glad I can clamp below the plug. It won't be for long, maybe 2 or 3 rides should be enough to see how comfortable or not the stem position feels. I do have a whole bunch of spacers to be placed above the stem and it looks ridiculous but as long as it is safe I don't mind.
People don't normally cut the steerer until they have tried and feel comfortable with handlebar height, so do they also ride with a ridiculous pole above the stem for a while?