When most of us in Bentonville area think of BMW, our minds immediately jump to thoughts of the 6 Series, 3 Series, 7 Series, X6... Four-wheeled vehicles, however, aren't the only things the Bavarian automaker excels at. It's not something most of ruminate over of as we drive around with 400 hp, voice command, climate zone ventilation, SIRIUS radio, active roll stabilization and night vision. But, BMW has been making motorcycle engines and bikes since after WWI. More recently, they've entered the scooter market, which demonstrates huge demand in Europe and Asia, where they are used as a fuel-efficient - and often times more expedient  alternative to cars.

The scooter craze remains subdued here in the U.S. compared to overseas. However, BMW sees potential for demand to rise substantially, especially as drivers become more aware and proactive about fuel prices, spending habits and the environment. In an effort to provide luxury drivers who are ready to make the switch from four wheels to two a bit easier, BMW is introducing a pair of new 60-hp scooters to the U.S. market in 2012: the C600 and C650GT Maxi-Scooter. Riders familiar with BMW scooters will see a resemblance between the previous two-cylinder R1200RT and 6-cylinder K1600GT.

The two new BMW scooters recently debuted in sunny Californian and Milan. They're not all BMW has in store, though. It looks as though they might have yet one other surprise for the scooter market, next year. Reports indicated, they're developing a zero-emission, pure electric scooter, as well.

Interested in more BMW news? Stay tuned. BMW of Northwest Arkansas, located at 2500 SE Moberly Lane Bentonville, AR is committed to keeping you up on all BMW news, from new BMW luxury car launches to two-wheel ventures.