How to mechanic continued.
There it is. Weigh the benefits/costs and do what works for you. One other optional component to mention. Toss the standard crank bolts/dust covers and use these instead. Around $10 for a pair. Most multi tools have the matching size wrench for emergency repair on the road. I need to fill in the letters on the crank arms with a sharpie. Better do that now.
For myself, I would go with a triple. This is the loaner bike however, so I overhauled the BB then put on a 110/74 crank with the same spindle. It is now a 52/36 semi compact double. I took pictures of the BB overhaul, but that will have to wait for another episode of Ironman Nation "How to."
Now it's time to turn it over to the hot riders, the outlaws and the rebel rousers that can show you how to trick out you IM with the latest/greatest modern components. I'm talking about experts like RT, rccardr, txsailor, texpandj and others. Take it away, people!