recomendations for touring bikes?



I just got an older 520 with very low gears on the crank, certainly not the way it came- 46/36/26 with and a 12-28 on the back. I looked at the current '05 edition of the 520 and it runs a 11-34 cog, which is understandable, but what I don't get is the high big ring on the 52/42/30 crankset. I guess downhill you use the 52, but otherwise, with an 11-34 or a 11-32 wouldn't a 48/38/28 be better? Or maybe a 50/46/28?
 
Just picked up my Devinci Destination yesterday. It looks even better then I thought it would. I haven't had a chance to take it out for a spin yet, so I'll post my thoughts tomorrow, after I finally get to ride my fine new machine!