Again, it comes down to where you ride and your fitness level. I ride a triple 52-42-30 x 12-26 and there are times I'm in 30x26 wishing there was more available to me. There are some riders around here who ride doubles and I am quite impressed. I, however, love my knees and ain't getting any younger!! As for the easy of use, I have to agree that shifting is more complicated but I am not racing and a couple extra seconds to get the right gear is worth the effort. It is better than walking up the hills!!