The Comp Set stems that Specialized bikes are equipped with have a 12-degree angle and a 2-degree shim that fits around the steerer. This gives the rider four options for stem angle 76 or 80 degrees to the steerer with the stem flipped down, and 100 or 104 degrees with the stem flipped up.

To get the stem in its highest position it must be flipped up--its angle with the head tube is obtuse--and the shim must be set so the flange--the fat part that extends beyond the stem is on the bottom with the wide side turned to the front. Your bike may be already set up this way.

To manipulate the stem, remove the end cap bolt and the end cap and loosen the bolts that clamp the stem to the steerer, with the fork supported. If you need to flip the stem you will also need to remove the handlebar by removing the face plate--don't drop the faceplate bolts on the floor or the washers will bounce off and you'll lose them forever.

Having removed the stem and deciding which side is up, make sure the flange is on the bottom. You can push this out easily by loosening the clamp bolts some more. Re-insert shim so flange is on bottom and wide side of flange is in front. Make sure rear slots are aligned.

Replace stem on steerer. Replace end cap so "+" side is in front and tighten end bolt with firm finger torque--do not over-tighten. Align fork and tighten steerer clamp bolts with firm hand pressure, while making sure stem is straight. Replace handlebar if necessary, and there you go.

People who have never owned or assembled a Specialized road bike must think I'm nuts, but these stems really are "adjustable."

If you bar is still too low, your Specialized dealer should be able to get you one of their 24-degree stems. All aftermarket Specialized road stems come with three shims, 2, 4 and 0 degrees. That give you a range of 110 to 118 degrees with the stem flipped up. The down-flipped positions of this stem are inconceivable unless you're into match sprinting. Here's a schematic of the angles possible with the 12-degree and 17-degree (Pro Set) stems. ( http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/...0Stem%20Angles ) 17 is 7 less than 24, but you get the idea.

I do not recommend steerer extenders of any sort, even if they are made by Specialized, for safety reasons.