Not much new under the sun can be said about how essential it is to have an Internet presence when you’re trying to sell stuff. When it comes to scooters, you have mega-retailers and Internet-only retailers working hard on their flashy appearance – literally.

But what about the smaller-scale operation specializing in repairs and carrying a few lesser-known scooter brands? Retailers like Blue Cat Motors in Saint Paul, Minn. typically will put up a bare-bones website just to let folks know they really exist. But more and more now, you see them working harder on the website in a more-concerted effort to draw in customers.

Indeed, that’s exactly what has happened at Blue Cat Motors where widely traveled co-owner Ryan Scott not only wanted his business known for its rapidly scaling scooter sales in 2007-08, but for motorcycle repairs and restoration of vintage rides. The website went from bare bones to broad and alluring. Teaming up with web developer Reid Peifer of Giant Squid Industries located nearby in Saint Paul, Blue Cat Motors has created an artful site that captures the spirit and essence of the business, its owners and employees. It’s a fun place to visit – both virtually and in reality.

As is often the case, not everything on the website is just right from the start. A few bios remained to be added at re-launch. Helmets on the website weren’t actually free – they needed a price tag added. It will take quite a bit to keep up this ambitious website – and that’s always going to be a bit challenging for a smaller operation with workers who wear more than one hat. In the long run, though, the time and money spent likely will prove a wise investment.