Originally Posted by Fox Farm

It depends on how steep are the climbs that you plan to be doing. I am 62 and live in a pretty hilly area with some big 12% to 15% climbs, but certainly not all are like this. I use a compact 50/34 crank and an 11/29. Just put on an 11/32 and it is just right for me. Most of the time I only use the 29 in rear but the 32 is there for a bail out gear or to keep my crank speed up. One suggestion is to get yourself back into cycling shape for the next 3 months with the 11/30 and as you develop some power for hills, see how the 30 does. If it is really not enough, change cassettes and chains. Most rear detailures that will work with a 30 will also work with a 34, medium cage. Likely you are going with Shimano and their rear mechs are not that expensive if you must change.