I only started riding about 5 years ago. Built my bike with a triple (at my wife's insistence), but on the terrain I ride I don't really need it. But I did employ the small ring when I rode with my brother in North Carolina and he took me up one hill that was much more stern than I can ever find at home. Even if I never use it, I haven't switched out as I like the reassurance that it's there if I need it. (And why spend the time and money to convert it back when I may find more use for it as time passes.)