Gotta say I appreciate this thread! Currently running 50/34 and 11/21 (10s), but am getting killed on the hills, however I do hit the 11 on occasion in some areas and never the 34. I'm thinking of going to a 23 on the back to stay off the 34, but don't have the knowledge or experience to know better either way, but from what I'm reading that seems to be the way to go.

Just how bad is it to be totally topped out, meaning 54/23? Is it a wear issue or potential mechanical failure? I'm pretty strong legged and haven't snapped anything, yet!

Glad I found you all!!