Compact Cranks

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by Dominic Sansom
What are the plusses and minuses of using Compact Cranks????

supposed pluses, less weight, narrower q factor, improved shifting of a double, and a real stretch is wider range of gears

thats all bs tho, they have a very specific ideal application, but triples can and should shift perfect and are unbeatable for the gearing options they offer with only very minimal extra weight

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by Dominic Sansom
What are the plusses and minuses of using Compact Cranks????

Like so many things related to cycles and equipment, it is a matter of personal choice. The previous response that better shifting of double is bs is one persons opinion. I happen to prefer the shifting of a double over a triple, but it is a very subtle point, as most well adjusted drivetrains shift well enough.
I ride a 34/50 w/ either a 12-25 or 12-27. For everything but climbing, I stay in the 50, requiring less shifting. I do not find myself feeling like I am between gears doing this, it works for me.
I chose this route due to my frame (Giant TCR Composite) not being as triple friendly as some. I have no regrets. I ride a fair number of hills (RAMROD, 10,000 feet elevation in 154 miles, Tour de Blast, 6,500 feet in 84 miles, and others) and find this combo works well. I am not young (56), but the low gear 34/27 is perfect for me. Any lower and you just take to long to get up the hill.
Each to their own.