Southern California - build options: compact or double crankset?

Hello dear SoCal members,

I'm slowly building up a bicycle to add to the stable... and I'm a little stuck on the issue of crankset, could you help?
The bicycle I'm building will be used both for racing, club rides, and centuries. I hope to get started in racing by next spring. I love to go fast on the flats, even though I'm a developing sprinter... and I really, really love climbing. We're very fortunate because the routes out here can run the gamut of pristine flats to massive climbs and descents...

So... with that in mind, could you help me decide between getting a standard double crankset or looking into a compact? (and on that note, which BB system should I look into, is ISIS really that bad?)
My cassette will most likely be a SRAM 11-26, and my crank length is 172.5mm

I don't want to go triple - I already have a triple on another bicycle, and although I love it, I would like this one to be substantially lighter.

My 'Climbs' are based off of the climbs we have around these parts (which can be steep, everything ranging from Angeles Crest to Mulholland to the SM Mountains) and on up to the Sierras...

Thank you, I really appreciate your input on this...

If you are worried about making a mistake get a compact crank that will accept both small and large chainrings. FSA makes 110MM BCD chainrings that are as large as 52. You can have two sets of chainrings. One set for "compact' that is 50 / 34 and another set that is almost standard at 52 / 38. Just buy the crank with the standard 50 /34 and order another set of chainrings.

You may want to take a close look at the 11-26. It is missing some really uselful cogs. Take a look at a Shimano 12 /27. If you are in the 52 combo it will be rare to outrun the 12. Of course another option is to go with a DA or Ultegra 12/27 where weight is important (climbing) and just get a 105 11/23 for your racing.

BTW there is absolutely nothing wrong with ISIS.

That's a great idea, and useful insight - thanks Jeff!

Do a search on compacts and you'll find varied opinions. I have one and love it. If running the std 50t ring, you will need the 11 in the back as the 12 spins out fairly quick. Started with the Ultegra 12/27 which now has morphed into an 11/29. It's now fast and will climb most anything.

If you love your triple...why change? There is not that much weight difference...
if its 1lb, you could lose that and still have the benefits of a triple....
thats my story and I'm sticking to it!!