For some men, a mid-life crisis is an occasion to invest in hair dye and flashy red sports cars.

But for Vice Provost Zach Messitte, it was a time to purchase a sky-blue Vespa.

Vespa is a brand of two-wheeled motor scooters, popular in Europe, and over the last half-century, its popularity in the U.S. has grown.

And professors, students and bystanders say there is no better place to ride one than in Norman.

“It’s not too crowded, it’s not too flat and the traffic isn’t bad,” said Messitte, director of the International Programs Center.

As the onset of scooter season begins in the spring and summer, salesman Frank Felix of Extreme Auto Options said it is more likely people will consider buying their own sporty, wild rides, which range in cost between $1,100 to $3,000.

He said scooters have become attractive because they help save on gas expenses.

But international area studies professor Suzette Grillot said she likes her scooter because it saves time getting around campus, and the parking is more convenient.

Grillot is a relatively new scooter owner, having purchased hers in November. Since then, she said she has put about 210 miles on it.

“I try to ride as often as I can when the weather is good,” Grillot said. “Sometimes I pick my daughter up from school on it.”

For Grillot, being a mother with scooter style also means having fashion sense. She said she often wears high heels when riding.

Messitte, who works with Grillot, said he can relate. Though instead of heels, he said he prefers a suit and a briefcase.

“Also, I never ride without a helmet,” Messitte said.

Messitte has had his Vespa since last summer. He said when students saw him on it this year, he gained unexpected popularity status.

“I have one student that has a scooter as well who wants to go ‘scootering’ with me,” he said. “I think things like this set you apart ... it’s something unique that’s different about you.”