Specialized dolce - comp headset loose issue

[Eden]

You also have to tighten the headset in the proper order... tighten the bolts that hold the stem to the steerer tube just enough to hold the stem steady- like finger tight. You want to fully tighten down the preload bolt (the one on the top of the headset) first. You want it tight enough that the headset isn't loose or wobbly, but will still turn freely and smoothly. I check it by holding the front wheel between my knees and trying to pull the handlebars back to front. If it feels like it clicks or has play then it needs to be a bit tighter, but don't tighten it down so much that it feels stiff or grinds when you let the handlebars fall to one side or the other. When you've done that you tighten the bolts that hold the stem to the steerer all the way. Do them a bit at a time (rather than cranking one down all the way and then doing the other) to keep the tension even.

and yeah - like Becky said, if you haven't, put that spacer on the top!

[indigoiis]

Did all of the above, and it still shakes. So I moved the spacer back down below as originally there and it tightens fine. Very frustrating.

[aicabsolut]

Do you have the right top cap? Some Specialized stems need different caps based on the angle of the stem. If you have a spacer on top, then you'd need a flat cap, while you may want a slightly wedged cap when the stem is at the top. It may be the 2nd bolt that's making the difference. You should be able to get the right cap for free from your dealer if that is the issue.