Yeah, I'll think going from a current 42x15 to a 42x17 will be a good move for me. I feel like I need to get my cardio up and spinning faster will definitely be beneficial. Soon as I get stronger/more fit, I can always go back to my 15. I plan on upgrading my crankset in the next 6 months and will most likely run a 48 in the front....so if I go to a 48 in the future, I can always stick with the 17 which will give me a very similar gearing to my original 42x15.
Plus a 17 will help with the skidz.