With a triple, you have a lot more options. I like to spin, regardless of the terrain. In the hills here and around KC, and with the river bluffs, I use the granny. Another thing I've found, When riding in wind, and I can't pull the big ring, I can go to the middle, drop a couple on the cassette and still maintain speed. I'm just spinning faster. It's a lot easier on the legs, knees, the whole nine yards. I will never buy a road bike that is not equipped with a triple. anyway, that's my two cents