Originally Posted by michaelmc
Two reasons:
1. Better/smoother shifting.
2. Tighter gear ratios for better cadence maintenance.
I can be convinced of the value of #1...
What is the basis for #2?
If tightness of gearing is the concern a 48/38/28 mountain/touring triple seems to give a lot more gear choices in the usable range than a 50/36 compact double...