I have one bike (the Ciocc) that has a compact double on it. Riding it, I have climbed the steepest grades we have to offer - so that's not really an issue. What is an issue is the increased frequency of double shifting. It is a comparative pain in the ass as opposed to the triple that I know and love.

The triple, at 53/42/30, is more or less a standard double with bailout gears in case I need them. The majority of my riding is using the middle ring, and shifting up and down the back as needed. It suits me and the way I ride the local terrain. I use the big ring about a third of the time, and the bail-outs much less frequently. But when I need them, I REALLY need them. So I keep them around.