Ah, the old triple vs compact double debate. First let's talk about the stigma associated with a triple. "If you are running 3 rings you must not be a real cyclist." That's BS! Just like slamming a stem. Just because it looks cool doesn't mean it's the right thing to do.

I think the type of rider you are will determine which crankset you will like. By type, I mean do you like tighter spacing on the rear cluster? Do you do a lot of riding on one ring? Do you do any touring/distance riding with varied terrain? Depending on the terrain, I usually spend most of my time on 1 ring. Flat I'm the big one and hilly I stay on the middle(triple) one. The rear cogs are what gets changed.

I have two roadbikes that I rotate between. Both vintage machines with 5 speed freewheels. One has a 52/40/30 triple and the other a 52/42 double. With the triple I can run really tight spacing. The double I have to have some bigger gaps out back. Both get the job done, but I much prefer the triple. I don't use the bailout ring much, but it is there just like insurance. It allows me to run a straight block on the back if the terrain is not very hilly. I like that! As for the weight and stigma of a triple, who cares?

One thing about the old friction shifting systems, you can shift as many gears at time as you wish. I like that also.