I currently have a 30/42/52 triple and mostly use the 42/52 (just moved here, haven't been out) on Cape Cod (like no hills). The cassette is an 8 speed 11 - 26. I find I am mostly in the middle of that, sometimes in the 26.

Now granted I am still working on getting 'into shape' and the such and getting the legs strong. Need something that is going to get me through getting the legs good and racing (don't want to have to spend on 2 cassettes)