A while ago I got into road biking--my significant other is big into cycling and ONLY road cycling. It seemed completely theraputic for my chronically bad back. Unlike most physical activities that had me in pain almost instantly, I was pain free even after 70-100 miles. Naturally, I purchased a road bike--a beautiful carbon fiber Cannondale Synapse with Ultegra/Dura Ace. I now ride every couple of days and almost every weekend(and alllll weekend). I have met many great people and learned of lots of great trails, paths, and rides. I however am unable to participate in some of this because I have a road bike. No dirt, gravel, chipped rocks with my little tires. So I'm looking at add a bike but I have NO idea what I am even looking for.

I'm naturally leary of people trying to sell me things so I want to have my ducks in order before I go into the store to even chat. I am even open to buying used, online, whatever. So here are my desires: I want to be able to ride on bluechip/gravel/etc. I do NOT need to be able to race through the woods jumping off of cliffs/rocks/whatever else some of those mountain-bikers do. I am looking for something relatively light--I have a really bad back. I'm in my early 20's and I've now had two back surgeries, likely more to come--and I live multiple flights up stairs in an apartment complex and have to carry my bike up and down each time I ride. I like the positioning/fit on my current road bike... I'd say I have a relaxed road position... but not upright at all. I want something that looks sleek and sexy. I know--vain. haha...


So what should I be looking for?... I don't really have a budget per se, as I just want something that will get me out on the trails but not leaving me with tinges of regret down the line(ie I wish I would have upgraded to this or that... or why did I waste my money on this).

Insight? Please..... What *kind* of bike should I look for? Brands, models?