2012 Trek 7.5 FX - Swap out compact double for triple?

[ChrisM2097]

I just purchased a used 2012 Trek 7.5 FX. It's mainly going to be my commuter, and there are no crazy steep hills on my commute to work...but I'd also like to use it on the weekends to do some climbs near my house - some of which are very steep (~18% grade). Not sure if my 270lb self can do that while using the higher gear ratio of a compact double.

What are your recommendations?

1. Keep the compact crank on the Trek and don't use it for steep hills. Use my '07 rockhopper when I get the urge to climb. At least until I drop some more weight.
2. Ditch the compact and make my bike more versatile.

Thanks in advance for helping me make a decision.

[Bill Kapaun]

It appears your cassette has a 34T cog and your small ring is 34T.

Are you trying to climb walls?

IF you really need lower gears than what you have, I'd be more concerned if the 24 spoke wheel set would hold up.
If you are putting that much torque to the rear wheel, you would be putting too much slack/stress in the drive side leading spokes. Kind of "unwrapping" them.

[ChrisM2097]

Good point about the wheels. I've got a set of 36h wheels at home that'll probably replace these OEM ones - at least until I lose some weight. Also, I've got a closer-ratio cassette (9sp 11-26 PG-950) that'll be going on this bike. The 11-34 will be going on my rockhopper. Looks like I should just use the rockhopper for hill climbs for the time being.

And, yes, for some parts of these hills, it feels like I'm climbing a wall.

This little hill, for instance has some spots that are 20% grade.
www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/69346040/