Well, I might be a social outcast now at coffee houses.
Bruce
That is truly the greatest downside! I ride a triple on one bike and a compact on another. It never ceases to amaze me when someone makes a comment on the triple.
The one writer for Road Bike Rider did an article on triples, gear ratios and compared to Lance. The point he was making that riding up hills in the same gearing as a pro uses when someone is middle aged and a weekend warrior did not make a great deal of sense. The negative reaction he got was unbelievable.
I knew you would be happy with either choice compact or triple. I have found each has its advantage.