Triple v Double

[ny biker]

Which is the way to go.

I hear triple is good for newbies trying to master hills, but will become obsolete quickly. What's the real deal?

Seems like the double of the bike i want is out of stock for a while. i don't want to feel compromised because i'll have to wait longer. i just want what i want now.

Newbies trying to master hills? Who is telling you this?

I've had a triple for 8 years and it won't be "obsolete" anytime soon. I use the small ring less as the season goes on and I get into better shape, but I still need the granny gear for some hills even when I'm at my strongest, either because they're very steep or I'm doing a long hilly ride and I need to pace myself.