Converting quill to A-head - height adjustment

[Percy]

I really don't want to be doing this but to make the bike fit perfectly for me I need to change my quill for a A-head stem, to let me fit a specific handlebar that I can't get in 26mm. My basic question is, if i use one of these things:

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/profile-quill-to-threadless-stem-converter/#more

... am I going to be able to adjust the height of the stem at all, or is it set? Do I need to be cafeful with the size (height) of the stem I buy to go with it (if indeed there are options)? Or can I use spacers to add height if required?

To add a little more - I've had the bike setup for me by a pro bike fitter and the only problem is the reach on the current handlebars. I want to make sure that, if I fit this A-head business, I don't lose all the other setup that's been done - cross-bar/stem height being the main thing here.

Any thoughts?

 

[smokeysmoo]

The height is pretty much set. If you look at the wide section of the adapter it's the same depth as a stem, give or take a mm or two. You may get away with not inserting the adapter all the way to give a fraction more height, but I wouldn't personally. I used one of these adapters when I did a modern conversion on an 80's Peugeot last year, and for me it was spot on. If you find you do need more height perhaps you could flip your stem?

 

[Percy]

OK, thanks smokeysmoo. The height on my current setup looks about 'average' so I think it'll be all right. Looking at something like this for the new one:

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/ritchey-comp-4-axis-black-stem-2011/

Although there's no height measurement so it's difficult to say.

 

[youngoldbloke]

Percy you might find this useful stem calculator

 

[mattsccm]

You do have some height adjustment. The extender works just like a quill stem so you lift it to suit, not exceeding the maximum mark. It can look a bit odd so fill the gap with some Ahead spacers. Try 1" ones as they are a neater fit and pack them with tape to stop rattles.