The record-high gas prices are pushing many Arkansans to find alternative forms of transportation--like scooters.

Sales have soared by nearly 25% across the country in 2008, and the trend is continuing right here in Arkansas.

When state representative Kathy Webb bought her Honda scooter two weeks ago, it was the first time she had ever been on any kind of motorbike.

(Rep. Kathy Webb, Little Rock) “When my friends got these scooters, I started looking at their scooters--and when they're 125 miles to the gallon, I thought. ‘Wow, that would really make not only a green statement, but it would also have a huge economic impact on my personal budget.’”

In just two weeks she's gone 200 miles on her scooter. The price tag? Only $7.

Now, with gas prices pushing $4 per gallon, we're willing to bet other Arkansans have had the same idea. So we headed to some scooter dealerships to find out.

Richards Honda Yamaha in southwest Little Rock says they're having a hard time keeping any scooters in stock.

(Rich Richards, Richards Honda Yamaha) “We've got a few models left. We're trying to get our hands on some more, but it's been pretty tough.”

They've sold more scooters in the past six weeks than they normally do in six months.

(Richards) “In the past, it's always been a passion. Now our passions are paying for themselves.”

For Webb, this newfound passion is saving her at least $200 a month--and more and more Arkansans seem to be following suit.

(Webb) “It's kind of cool, because when you drive down the street now, you see other people on scooters--and even motorcycles--and you kind of wave. It's kind of like you're in this scooter club.”