I run 2x6 on my (vintage) road bikes, but could happily switch to 2x7, 3x6, or 3x7, and I use 3x8 on my mountain bike, which also serves as my gravel bike. The 1x systems do not interest me. With a 2x half-step, I can use the rear derailleur for most shifting, then fine-tune with the front when needed. With a 2x 1.5-step, I can do the same, as well as dump the chain to the small ring when approaching a climb or a red light or an incline.
I don't need more than 96 gear-inches on a road bike, and I have a 100-inch top gear (46/12) on the mountain bike, having just switched from 48-40 to 46-38, which will facilitate a planned switch from a 28 to a 26, or even 24, granny ring. (When I used it in the past, the 24-40 shift proved a little too delicate for use in a quick gear change.)
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"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." --Theodore Roosevelt
Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
Bianchi: 1982 Campione d'Italia, S/N 1.M9914
Schwinn: 1988 Project KOM-10, S/N F804069