Thanks for all the replies -- it has helped a lot. I've decided to just keep the triple and save the $$$.
Originally Posted by
Beaker
One other angle -- have you considered switching out your cassette and loosing the bigger gears to give you closer ratios (and possibly more top end if you go from a 12 to an 11)? This is much cheaper and easier, and might take advantage of your 3rd chainring.
I have thought of that, and even used
this calculator to work up different scenarios with different chainrings and derailleurs. I think I'll leave things for now since I only have 3200 miles on my drivetrain, so when things start to wear in a few years, maybe then I'll make the switch and be more confident in doing the work myself.