Quote Originally Posted by Syndirelah View Post
depends on where you live. Colorado? Triple.
Not necessarily. I live in VA at the foot of the Blue Ridge. We generally have short, steep climbs. I also ride in CO every year - in the Rockies - where the climbs can be 15 miles or more. I had a triple for about 8 years & it was fine, but switched two years ago to a compact double and immediately loved it. Maybe it was all in my head but the climbing seemed easier (still does). Last summer I rode the Triple Bypass on my compact double with no issues.

BTW, I am no spring chicken - I am 56 and have only been riding road bikes for about 10 years. So....I guess my point is that if you want a compact, go for it, but if you think you would need a triple then there is nothing wrong with that either. The most important thing is that you are on your bike and having fun!