I love my 3x9s.
Some things havent been said about the current 1x trend. It cant be denied that a 1x is simple, but dont tell me 2x or 3x is complicated. And a 2x or 3x is not as complicated as the half step gearing touring bikes used to have. . . A 12speed rear end will be wide- this creates many problems. The drive side spokes will be nearly vertical & tighter, increasing stress & making it harder to true the wheel. Will the chain/seat stays have to be beefed up, since they are further away from the load? idk . . A 12spd RD will have the lower jockey wheel closer to the ground, where it is more likely to pick up dust and make it more vulnerable to get caught up w/branches, etc.