I have both triples and a traditional 42/52 double. Shorter cages shift more quickly than medium or long cages. Otherwise, except for the noticable, if I want to notice it, lower Q factor, there are, for me, no major drawbacks to the triple other than an energy bar's difference in weight. The triple gives me a lovely cruising range in the middle ring for everything from rollers to strong tailwinds...with no double shifts. The last few climbs on that long ride, or that super steep pitch, are more comfortable on the granny. On climbs during days when the knees are stiff the granny is useful. Campy brifters with micro-adjust shift crisply enough and allow no instances of chain rub. DA bar-ends are also good for shifting triples.





At 62 and liking hilly rides, my triple gets good use. Several years ago, more governed by vanity and with healthier knees, I would have opted for the compact.