Debris covers the road and sidewalk, buildings are pock-marked with bullet and shrapnel holes, and shredded store awnings flap feebly in the breeze.

CNN: Syrian rebels face off with regime troops in 'sniper alley'

On my first trip, I had successfully ridden about six miles to pick up a DVD when I reached the inevitable: a long stretch of sidewalk-less road.

FORBES: How To Live Without Gas