Quote Originally Posted by RussianHillGal View Post
The TCRw comes with a compact double. The LBS guys said they could swap it out for a triple and install it for almost an even swap. So the decision really comes down to preference, not price.

I am 33, haven't been on a bike in 20 years (yeesh!), and would say I am average fit (just finished a 25k xc ski marathon with Team in Training, as a total beginner Dec 06 - but I am slooooow - and not terribly coordinated). Short legs. 5'1. Have probably 15 pounds that need converting from fat to muscle.
Since you haven't been currently cycling, go for the triple. There is no shame in it. When you get to be a stronger cyclist you can always upgrade to a double. What size is the rear casette and also the chainrings up front, and what would they change it out to?