Troy Atkinson is like most Americans — tired of the rising gas prices.

However, instead of complaining, Atkinson decided to do something about it. He purchased a 49-cc motor scooter in late April and is now feeling the savings all the way to the gas pump.

“I really enjoy it,” Atkinson said. “You feel a little funny riding it at first, but after a while you get used to it and actually it’s kind of fun.”

From scooters to bicycles to walking, area residents are looking for alternatives to driving.

Goff Ogaard, owner of Ripley Sports Center in Litchfield, reported a jump in motor scooter sales, selling more than 30 since April.

“We sold more scooters in three weeks than we sold in two years,” Ogaard said.

Scooter sales have risen nationwide. The Motorcycle Industry Council has reported motor scooter sales are up 24 percent in the first quarter of 2008 over last year.

Late last week, Ogaard was waiting for his third scooter shipment to arrive this season. The reason behind the increase in sales? "It’s mainly the gas prices,” he said.

Pedal power
High gas prices also are driving business to Bikes By Bob in Litchfield.

“I’ve sold more bikes this spring than I ever have before,” said owner Bob Tanner, who increased his stock in anticipation of higher demand.

However, it’s not bike sales having the biggest impact on business, Tanner said. It’s repairs.

“I’m getting a lot of repair work in which the bike has been hanging in the garage the last five years,” Tanner said.

Read more about scooter and bicycle business, as well as increased Meeker County Public Transit ridership, in the June 12 Independent Review.