Thanks for the responses...

I'm riding 19 miles (one way) on mostly flat terrain along the beach. I am really hauling a$$ in some places. There are also some hills I encounter on my route, which is why I need the small ring. My rear derailleur hasn't been working so I have been forced to use the 3x1 and so far it works well.

Some of you suggested a 1x9 setup... Will a 9 speed setup give me the variety of high and low that my ride requires?