Originally Posted by
chasm54
If you need low gears a triple is much the better solution, in my opinion. You can get the range with a compact plus a big cassette, of course, but the price you pay is big steps between the gears. The triple allows you to have the range and retain nice tight ratios, which makes for a much more pleasing and, to a degree, more efficient riding experience.
Plus, with the typical 50/39/30 triple you'll find yourself using the 50/39 rings most of the time, and that's a nicer combination on flatter terrain than is a 50/34 compact. You can always go lower than 30 for the granny ring, too, if you need to.
Originally Posted by
Barrettscv
I had a 50 & 34t compact with an 11-32 ten-speed cassette, but hated the bigger steps between cogs. I also didn't like shifting from the big ring to the smaller ring every time I dropped below 18 mph.
+1
If you like riding in the mountains, a triple is the way to go. The only reason to do a compact double is if you don't want to pony up for a conversion from double to triple. If you're buying a new bike at a good LBS, that should be a non-issue.
Better gear spacing. Less shifting between chainrings on the flats. All for a pittance of additional weight. Easy choice for me.