Hi,

I went from an 11-25 to an 11-27 a couple of years ago. And yes, I have a triple. We don't live that far away from each other, but I guess it depends where you ride. I regularly ride hills with 10-15% grades and I am not getting any younger. I considered getting a compact double right before I made the switch to the 11-27, and now I am glad I didn't because I now live on a huge hill. I would not get the mtb gearing on my road bike, but if I was touring with a load, I would. Of course, after getting a touring bike!