Hi Amy -

you've been given a lot of good advice why a triple is preferable to many people. So, I'll chime in for some reasons why you might want to go with the compact and what has and hasn't worked for me.

I've had both and I don't see a huge difference with my compact double but I certainly can't carry loaded panniers up the mountain with it, so I'm buying another bike with touring gears for those few and far between loaded tours. I live in Walnut Creek and my current road bike has the FSA SLK Compact Double mentioned above. I debated sticking with a triple or going to a compact when I bought the bike. I decided to go with the compact double because it was a 10 speed (I suppose there are 10 speed triples) and I really wanted the latest technology on my bike since I plan to keep it for a long time. I also bought it with the thought that I would have to get stronger .

I really love the bike, but I admit I am slow going up hill. I have to pedal pretty hard to get up some of the steeper hills - but I am also still in pre-season shape right now. I did the Holstein 100 last year with this bike and was able to hump it up the big hill while standing and mashing. On the flip side, there are times when I am spinning on the descent (I have a 50-34 which is not a very high gear). And while I am not a downhill diva so I don't consider this a huge loss, I can always go to a 53-39 if I really want a higher gear.

I guess what I am trying to say is - if you are a strong rider, you might want to consider going to the compact. If you want to scream downhill, you might want to consider a higher large ring (53-39). The compact double might also be a good option if you plan on buying another bike with lower gears (as I am now doing).

lots of good advice from everyone. hope this helps....