I too worry about this stuff (first-world problems... I know.)
My next bike will have some off brand or mtn. cranks I guess. I have no need of 52-11, or even 50-11.
Instead of bigger and bigger cassettes, I'm thinking smaller chain rings.
If i could run 11-28 or 11-26 in the back as a 10 or 11 speed and something sane (for me) like 48-32 or 46-30 or something in front I'd be a pig heaven.