But seriously, to OP - I am close to you. Been riding for about 2 years, living in a very mountainous area (Colorado), and I am loving my triple.

Yes, there are a lot of people who look down on riders who have triples. They think we are weak, slack, not obeying rule 5, etc. My brother (who has been riding longer than me) keeps telling me my triple makes me slow and weak.

So what? I know I am not strong enough to ride a double, especially up some of the big Colorado hills. I am not a pro or a racer, so I don't really care. My triple makes my rides easier, which makes them more fun, which means I ride more.

That said, I am contemplating a double on my next steed. I think I might be able to do it, and might be able to get up these hills and still enjoy it. If I can, it will be better for my fitness and my speed, so there are definite upsides.

Then again, after riding the Telepgraphe, Galibier, Lautaret, and Alple D'Huez, my brother mentioned more than once that he would really have liked my extra chainring.

Bottom line - pick the gruppo that makes you happy, and screw what the wankers say or think.