I like more gears, as long as I can afford replacement components. 10spd is my limit, because Shimano has all levels of components, from affordable for guys like me, to pricy and light for the racing types/weight weenies (no offense, but I have weight to lose, bike weight is not that important right now!)

8 speed has a lot of gaps in gears. 9 speed is much nicer, and I expect my new 10speed podium 2 to be better yet to find the right gear combo, especially on pavement.

Offroad? I'm fine with 9 and always will be. Or just one (see my signature )