In Europe, where gas has always been more expensive, hopping on a Vespa is way of life . Now with prices closing in on $4 a gallon, people in Western Mass understand why.

Zakaria Fakahir bought his first scooter in Northampton at EZ Rider Motorsports. He used to have a Harley but two weeks ago, took a spin on the scooter and never looked back.

"I go to Springfield, Holyoke, Easthampton, and all over," said Fakahir.

Fakahir like so many others turning to two wheels instead of four, are doing it in part, to save money on gas-guzzling cars.

"I bought this bike to save a lot of money because I used to put $75 to $80 a week into my car because I travel a lot. And then when I got this bike, in the last 2 weeks I've spent only $9,: adds Fakahir.

The owner of EZ Rider Motorsports, Matt Golob, agrees. He says his motor scooters have been scooting out of his showroom quickly this season.

"When gas prices started going up to about $3.10 a gallon, that's when everyone was coming in," said Golob.

And its no surprise, since depending on the engine, a motor scooter can get between 70 and 100 miles a gallon.

"I have men coming in with suits and driving a Lexus, but yet they realizes that the gas is just too much, and gets a scooter to go two towns over just to work," adds Golob.

According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, scooter sales have more than doubled since 2000, perhaps because of the savings as well as for the fun.