Hi all, newbie project at hand. Primary purpose is all around towner/commuter via train/light touring possibly. I live in San Francisco and must climb hills (10-15% grade) w this build.

Here are the decisions I have made: Surly Cross Check 54cm, wheels Belgium HED, want to go w 8 speed cassette and bar end shifters

My main question is regarding drive train choices. I currently ride a Trek Road triple 52-39-30 w 10 speed cassette 12-25 for gearing 114-31 gear inches. For this build I want to keep it simple: compact double and 8 speed cassette.
Cranks I have found and considering are: IRD Defiant 50-34; Velo Orange Grand Cru 48-34; Velo Orange Polyvalent 46-30. I also have read Sugino might be a nice choice.

I would appreciate suggestions regarding these cranks as well as cassette ranges. I know this bike will weigh more and might need gearing on the low end to be below 30 gear inches (fatigue/loaded etc). I can climb my commute hill home in 39-25 (41 gear inches) but that is when i feel good w no load. I rarely max out or even use the large 52 chainring on commute time. Most gearing used currently is 39 front and middle of cassette (50-70 gear inches).

Many thanks for the input and suggestions.