Soaring fuel prices are proving positive for some businesses. The high price of gas is forcing drivers to look for cheaper ways of getting around. Some turn to bicycles or public transportation, but others are turning to more fuel-efficient mopeds.

Mopeds can get anywhere between 80 and 100 miles per gallon, and dealers are scrambling to keep up with the demand

Mopeds Direct in Kapahulu sold out of new mopeds three weeks ago. The store has more than 100 new mopeds ordered, and about half of them are already presold. The shop has tripled its orders, including larger bikes for larger drivers.

"We are getting guys 300 pounds and up, can't look like King Kong Bundy on a midget bike," said Jeff Miller of Mopeds Direct.

The Moped Company, the moped service and rental shop next door, is also seeing the demand spike.

"The request for service is skyrocketing," said Jennifer Purcell of The Moped Company. "The requests for used mopeds is phenomenal."

Repairs are so backlogged, they've had to turn away business, Purcell said. Purcell also has a wait list of buyers for any used scooters that come in the door.

"A lot of the kids who aren't using them now, their parents are using them," said Purcell.

Ray fits the emerging profile for the new moped owner, a cost-conscious adult drivers who traded his car in a year ago with no regrets.

"Solid on the road, smooth riding, and hopefully people will see it more on the road, compared to a scooter or bicycle," said Ray.

"We're getting husbands who are coming in who are trying to save the family money," said Miller. "They can't make it with two primary drivers with SUVs."