Yes I have to agree that it would make sense to have a bailout gear or a lower gear than offered. I like having a 32 cassette and a front 26 on my 26" tourer. Granted you can swap the chainrings out, but why spec it like that? Trek really needs to listen. On the other hand, I will be honest and say that if I wanted a Trek 520, changing gear ratios wouldn't be a big deal for me. Then on the other hand, I still can't help feeling they are losing some customers over this.