Featured Branch: THE LITAS HUNTERDON

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The Litas Hunterdon: @thelitashunterdon

The Litas of Hunterdon County New Jersey are blessed with scenic routes along the Delaware River, charming small towns, and gorgeous fall foliage. We chatted with the founders to learn more about how their branch has grown, some of the struggles they have encountered as riders, and how they have worked together to overcome those challenges.

Keep reading to learn more about this ever-growing East Coast branch and what it’s like riding with The Litas Hunterdon.

The Litas of Hunterdon County, New Jersey, on International Female Ride Day.

Who are your branch founders?

Pam Zehner, Adrienne Bolinder, & Suzanne Lapin

How did you discover The Litas?

Co-founder Adrienne first discovered The Litas online during her search for local, like-minded ladies who share a passion for two-wheeled adventures. It was at Babes Ride Out East Coast 5 that Sue and Pam first encountered a group of Litas. Engaging in conversations and witnessing the camaraderie among the women, they immediately recognized The Litas as an exceptional collective of kindred spirits devoted to motorcycles. Since that fateful encounter, we have all been captivated and embraced the Litas community with unwavering enthusiasm.

What brought the founders together?

In 2021, Pam and Sue connected through a Facebook group called "Babes Ride Out East Coast 2021." Sue expressed her desire to join Pam and her close friend Kacie for the ride and camping experience, to which they warmly welcomed her. The bonds formed during that journey paved the way for lifelong friendships.

As members of The Litas of Hunterdon County, Pam and Sue crossed paths with Adrienne. When the original founders of the chapter, Nikol, Virginia, and Nicole, passed the torch, Pam wasted no time in inviting Adrienne and Sue to become co-founders. With their complementary expertise, years of riding knowledge, and commitment to fostering a peaceful, supportive, and amiable environment, the founders united with a shared vision.

“Once I finally joined The Litas, I felt more confident and supported by women in my state and around the world!” ”

— Deme F.

Tell us about your IFRD Ride:

On International Female Riding Day, a delightful group of 18 gal pals embarked on an unforgettable ride under a sunny spring sky. Our destination was Mountain Lake in Liberty, NJ, where the talented Lita, Megan S. (known as @moto.she.rode on Instagram) captured photographs showcasing the joy and love shared by us all as we reveled in our two-wheeled adventures. The journey continued with a scenic route down Route 46 to The Log Cabin Inn. There, amid a delicious lunch, we witnessed a parade of classic cars passing by. To end the day on a sweet note, a few members indulged in ice cream at the beloved local establishment, Humpty Junior's. This year’s IFRD Ride was truly a testament to the tremendous camaraderie and bliss experienced by the exceptional women of The Litas.

Share your biggest success with The Litas Hunterdon:

Undoubtedly, our most significant accomplishment thus far was our recent trip to Babes Ride Out East Coast 7. With 21 incredible women camping together, even more joined us on our ride led by Adrienne to the Hawk’s Nest. Our founders were beaming with pride at the group that came together for that ride. The seamless formation and synchronized riding skills displayed by the group, despite some members being previously unacquainted, left an indelible impression. For some, it was their inaugural motorcycle camping experience; by the end of the trip, they expressed immense satisfaction and pledged to return for the following year. The success of this memorable and monumental moto camp adventure attracted several new members, further solidifying the chapter's growth and accomplishments.

What are some of the struggles you have encountered being a female/nonbinary motorcyclist in New Jersey? Any tips on overcoming these obstacles?

As founders, we contemplated our personal encounters, but we also invited our branch members to share their thoughts on the matter:

“As a female rider, I do not feel there is much selection to choose from when sitting on motorcycles for shorter people in general. Most of us smaller framed persons don’t have the option to select the bells and whistles as we are just trying to find a motorcycle that simply fits us in general. However, by talking to other Litas who have experienced similar situations, I was able to see how they have their motorcycles set up in which I was able to modify and tweak my bike to then become more comfortable for myself.”- Adrienne

“Finding a riding community of female peers! I’ve been riding for 12 years now (and was a passenger for bike events since I was a kid) and never found or saw any group of women riders in my age range until I discovered the Litas last year. Game changer!!”- Alexi C.

“Not feeling as confident as all my male counterparts once I finally got on my own bike... It wasn't until I found other women, from beginners like me to seasoned vets, that I started to really feel confident on my bike. The Litas and BRO were a HUGE part of that for me... My confidence and abilities on my bike have improved so much over the last 2 seasons since becoming part of the Litas fam!” - Stephanie L.

“Bikes and gear (helmet, jacket, pants, levers, seat height, etc.) don't usually consider feminine body shapes and sizes. Also, having to deal with chauvinists who still believe that men are superior riders. I've been dealing with these issues since the 90's and have always been riding with the guys. Once I finally joined The Litas, I felt more confident and supported by women in my state and around the world!” - Deme F.

“Not only am I female, but I am 4’10” and probably look 10 years younger than I am. It has taken me the 4 years that I’ve owned my motorcycle to find a mechanic that takes me and my concerns seriously. The place I purchased my bike from told me I ‘would never have to change the oil’, clearly assuming I would never ride long enough to be due for an oil change. I am at almost 4,000 miles now, and I enjoy the look on their faces when I stop in to buy oil and filters.

My advice to others is to:

1) Stand your ground. A salesman was trying to discourage my purchase of the Honda Rebel 500cc and sell me on a Grom. I ended up buying the Rebel, and I do not regret it one bit.

2) Ask questions and for second opinions. Multiple dealers told me it was either impossible or possible to lower the same motorcycle, depending on who I asked. Not everyone has the answers or are willing to put in the work.

3) Find a local Litas chapter and join! Nothing makes me feel safer or more confident than the group of ladies backing me.” -Kacie K.

Any big plans for this summer?

Our summer itinerary brims with thrilling rides catering to riders of all levels. For some sun-soaked adventures, we have arranged beach rides to LBI and Point Pleasant. We also have several rides to local ice cream parlors planned, one of our summer favorites. In July, we look forward to a breakfast ride to Sky Manor airport, which includes a scenic journey through covered bridges. We are hoping for a memorable summer!

Anything else you would like to share?

The Litas of Hunterdon County relentlessly endeavors to foster a welcoming and comfortable environment for all. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jessica Wise, the founder of The Litas, without whom we wouldn't have forged these incredible friendships and cherished memories. Thank you!