My vote for a second ride is a 'cross bike. I have a custom Luna Orbit w/disc brakes and a campy chorus compact crankset (LOL, what a mouthful) that I love riding. Got 'cross tires on her, so she can go offroad, too.

I have (ahem) several road bikes, each w/its own purpose. Right now, my beater bikes are getting the most use since the road and trail conditions haven't been great.