Originally Posted by
DaveSSS
Picture 1 is really ugly and picture 2 is only a little better, since both have big spacers stacks. I like to keep the spacers down to 5-10mm if possible, but I refuse to use a stem angle greater than 84-90. No flipped stems for me. Right now I'm using a 73 degree (horizontal) stem with a 5mm spacer above the 15mm headset top section.
All of that is just fine IF you have a frame that is large enough and has a head tube extending up enough to get the bars where you want them OR if you are flexible enough to have the bars well below seat level.
Not every one wants or can use the bars as low as a 73° or even a 90° stem plus a very short spacer stack will put them. Looks sometimes have to be sacrificed to practicality.