for steep variable grade hills I find staying in the smallest chainring of the triple gives me great range and fine resolution. I can stay in it most of the ride.

I can’t tell you the number of rides I was thankful I got the triple over the compact crank. Especially since triple 105/ultegra/dura ace setups are nonexistent these days.

I lost the “what will the other riders think of me” insecurities over the granny gear.