I want to raise the handlebars on one of my smaller bikes and I have this Nitto Technomic Deluxe stem that I inserted last night, only to find that it will not go far enough into the steerer tube to reach the insertion line. It has a 3 inch insertion length with a total rise of 7-1/2 inches (4-1/2 inches above the insertion line) and there is literally 1/8 of an inch (see picture) showing to the insertion line. With such a small amount showing could I use this stem or is that a definite no-no and a disaster waiting to happen?

If I cut an inch or so off the bottom of the stem which would probably be closer to the height I am wanting anyway, what are the ground rules for calculating a new insertion line? Could I just maintain the original ratio (3 to 4-1/2) with whatever length was left after cutting to maximize the rise or must I just insert the stem as far as it will go and be done with it? Thanks for any input!