If you like numbers....

The magic one is 0.002975 (IIRC).
Multiply that by gear inches by cadence to get MPH.
Know what MPH you want to cruise at (16? 18? 20!? 23!!!?) and set up one of the middle cogs on the big ring to give that in gear inches at the cadence you normally like to ride.
This gives you some leeway for headwinds & tailwinds, plus the bottom ring for hills.

It's a little different approach.

Also, be leery of getting locked into thinking about it as a "52x17" or whatever, as that has a different meaning on a bike with 650c, 700c, and 27" wheels, and especially Moultons (this is C&V after all).