My average solo cruising speed on flat ground is 19-22mph, depending on wind. I'm not going to win the TDF but I'm not a weak rider. With a 34T that means I'm in my 11 or 12 tooth cog at my cadence. So almost every time I want to accelerate then yes, I have to shift to the big ring. And no, I don't like to be cruising in my small cogs the majority of the time, I don't like the extra chain wear. Basically, I just don't like it and the reasons why is none of your concern. I don't like to be cruising in my big ring the majority of the time and have to shift to the small every time I slow down. I like my chain to be in the middle of my cassette when I'm just steady cruising. That's just my thing. A 39T does that for me, and even a 36 isn't too bad.

If I didn't know what I was talking about and you knew what was better for me than I do, then I wouldn't have pulled the compact that came on my 2011 Focus off after the first month and replace it with a standard like I did.

That's my preference, that's how I've ridden for 31 years. I don't need a lecture from you or anyone else. If you have a different preference then cool, I can respect that. If you can't respect my preference then don't reply to me because you aren't going to school me on anything.