I had a three speed in High School (mid 1970's) and hated it. Of course I lived on top of a Mesa in Colorado at the time and the gearing wasn't appropriate for climbing.
On a flat-ish moderately rolling terrain It would have been OK. Now that I live in TX, I'd probably consider having one.
The gearing may be wider on the new bikes.
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>>>Team Critical Mess<<< (You mean it's not SUPPOSE to hurt?)
My nice new Nashbar Touring Build AKA "The Flying Avocadooooooooo!"
1998(?) Trek 700 Multitrack
1995 Trek 1220 AKA "Jimi"
Older Non-suspension Specialized Hardrock