Originally Posted by
acantor
A triple chainring -- or even a double -- is proven technology for touring. It's reliable, durable, and effective. I am not sure why anyone would NOT want a wide range of gears. Unless one is touring in Holland, Saskatchewan, or Cape Cod, hills and headwinds are inevitable! In fact, when I toured in Holland, I needed very low gears due to the extreme headwinds blowing off the sea.
+1, A triple is standard stuff, anything less for touring is self-abuse. Even for flat terrain you just don't use the lower ring. What is the down side of having the right equipment? It's doubtful that you will NEVER try an area with hills.