The Litas are a global community of women united by their love for motorcycles. They connect through their shared passion and support one another on their journeys. As strong women, they advocate for their desires and beliefs with members in 36 countries and 344 cities across the United States.
La Fumarosa
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Introducing Andrea Brownell and Angie Wilson, two passionate riders driven by a shared vision to empower women in motorcycling. Inspired by a friend’s suggestion to follow The Litas on social media, Angie and Andrea have long admired their mission. After years of engaging with them on Instagram, Angie proposed the idea of creating a local collective to unite women riders from all backgrounds. With over 25 years of experience, Andrea brings the skills of seasoned riders, while Angie, a newer rider, contributes her skills in both street riding and boonie bike racing.
Their mission began to take shape when a local friend, Ryan Kenens, who started the minibike craze in central Iowa encouraged Andrea and Angie to explore The Litas further. At the 2023 Mama Tried motorcycle show, Angie had the privilege of speaking with Kim Okabe, The Litas Branch Manager, who inspired her to establish a branch in Des Moines, Iowa.
Angie took the first step in bringing her vision to life by introducing her idea and reaching out to Andrea, a mentor who has played an instrumental role in shaping Angie’s own motorcycle journey. Andrea, recognizing the potential for empowerment and community within this initiative, agreed to be a part of it. Joining them in this exciting endeavor were Wendy Taylor and Kat Brent, both passionate riders with their own unique experiences and insights to share.
Together, this dynamic team formed The Litas Des Moines, a collective dedicated to inspiring women of all ages and riding styles to embrace the exhilarating freedom of the open road. Their mission is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where women can learn, grow, and connect through their shared love of motorcycling. Whether a seasoned rider or a curious newcomer, The Des Moines Litas aims to celebrate the spirit of adventure and foster a vibrant community that encourages every woman to pursue her passion for riding.
Personal Journey
- What inspired you to start riding motorcycles, and how long have you been riding?
Andrea: My father was a professional hill climber and appeared in the film “On Any Sunday”. It was a documentary film released in 1971. The film explores the world of motorcycles racing and the culture surrounding it, featuring various riders and events across the United States. He taught all his children to ride at an early age. I have been riding off-road minibikes and dirt bikes since an early age.
- Can you share your first motorcycle experience?
Andrea: I bought my first street legal “brand new” bike off the Harley Davidson showroom floor: A 2003 Harley Davidson Sportster 883 R. I rode it home solo on my first official street ride, by myself! It was a highway adventure I’ll never forget!
- What was it like?
Andrea: It was euphoric! Words cannot describe the emotions that flowed through me! It was the best natural high known to womankind!
- Has your journey as a motorcyclist changed your perspective on life in any way?
Angie: I started riding minibikes in the same year that I began riding a motorcycle. After a couple of years, I ventured into motorcycle racing. Through that experience, I have learned a lot about racing and riding, and I’ve become strong advocate for new women riders and racers.
I have been involved in many first-time women’s classes for minibike racing. This year, I will be racing a full-sized motorcycle for the first time. Now that I have raced both ways, I can see the reasons for and against splitting up the classes for men and women.
Challenges and Triumphs
- What challenges have you faced as a female motorcyclist in a predominantly male-dominated sport?
Angie: I have found it challenging to race motorcycles and minibikes alongside men as a beginner. Most women feel the same; if there aren’t special classes or platforms that are inclusive of women, many find it daunting to participate, whether in riding or racing.
A significant triumph has been the establishment The Litas Des Moines which allows women to connect with other women to ride together. Having this community of women for support has introduced many more women to the riding community.
Another triumph has been advocating for more women’s classes in motorcycle racing. Since the addition of these classes, more women have joined the races. Many women feel safer riding and racing with other women rather than with men.
- Have you ever encountered any misconceptions about women riders? How do you address them?
Angie: I have heard many times that women cannot ride as well as men or that they can’t handle the bigger bikes like men can, and that’s simply not true. Every person has the ability to learn how to ride.
- Can you share a memorable moment or achievement in your riding journey that you are particularly proud of?
Andrea: I had only been riding a street legal bike for one week when I rode my 2003 Harley Davidson Sportster all the way to Sturgis Rally 2003 and back from Des Moines, Iowa. I rode alongside my dad and brother. We explored the Black Hills including the Wildlife Loop, Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road to Nemo. From Hills City to Keystone, Lead to Deadwood… the rides were endless! It was a memorable first summer riding adventure I’ll always cherish.
Community and Support
- How has the motorcycle community supported you as a woman rider?
Angie: The motorcycle community has shown me nothing but support in learning to ride and sharing the experience with others. The Litas Motorcycle Collective has helped connect me with many women all over the globe. I have never felt discouraged by anyone regarding riding or racing.
- Do you belong to any riding groups or clubs? If so, what has that experience been like?
Angie: I co-founded The Litas Des Moines with three other ladies: Andrea, Wendy and Kat, in the spring of 2023. I believe this has brought many local female riders together who may not have connected otherwise without the new moto collective. I have gone on many riding adventures since this Des Moines branch started, and I’m looking forward to many more in the future.
- What advice would you give to women who are considering starting to ride motorcycles?
Angie:
- Join a local riding group to help you meet other riders. Considering joining multiple riding groups, if you choose to do so.
- Take a rider safety course and obtain your motorcycle endorsement.
- Ride as much as you can, especially while you’re learning to hone your skills.
- Plan riding adventures.
- Meet other riders and learn what you can from them.
Riding Experience
- What type of motorcycle do you ride, and why did you choose it?
Andrea: My first love is my 2003 Harley Davidson 883R, modified with Buell heads, Hooker headers, and many other custom parts. My newest love, 2018 Ducati Monster 821, with Werkes exhaust, delivering the sound of serenity!
Angie: I got my first bike in 2020, which is a 1999 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 XL Custom. I chose this bike because I bought it on a payment plan from a friend, who told me it would be perfect for me as a beginner. I still have and ride this bike, and I also like to loan it out to others so they can join me on rides.
My second bike is a 2008 Harley Davidson Dyna Low Rider. I bought this bike to be more comfortable on longer road trips. I purchase it just before heading to Deadwood, South Dakota for the Babes Ride Out event. I’m so glad I did because it is much more comfortable on the interstate at higher speeds than my Sportster.
- How do you prepare for a long ride, both mentally and physically?
Angie: I make sure my bike is road ready, by checking that the oil, filters, and tire pressure are all good. I get any maintenance or upgrades done as needed.
I try to pack 1-2 days ahead of time to make sure I have everything I need.
I make sure that I have a good meal the night before and plenty of sleep. Staying hydrated is also important. I always try to map out the route ahead of time and look for good gas stations along the way, but honestly, I usually do that on the fly with maps on my phone.
- What is your favorite riding destination, and what makes it special for you?
Angie: I absolutely love riding to different parks and lakes. I enjoy riding at sunset; seeing the sunset over the lake while on my bike is the most magical experience. I also love watching the moon reflect on the lake and often go on full moon rides.
Safety and Skills
- What safety gear do you consider essential for female riders?
Angie: I think a helmet (I recommend a full-face helmet with a visor), gloves, pants, long sleeves, and boots are essential for keeping you protected.
- Do you have any tips for women on how to improve their riding skills?
Andrea: Give in to the obsession and passion and ride as often as possible! This will improve your skills and increase your confidence. Experience is the best teacher!
Angie: I believe the only way to become better and more confident is to ride more. Ride with different people and spend time riding by yourself as well.
- How do you stay informed about motorcycle maintenance and safety practices?
Angie: I have a bike mechanic whom I wholeheartedly trust. He shows me how he fixes everything, and talks me through all the oil changes, so that someday I will be confident to do it myself. He is very thorough with routine bike maintenance, which gives me the confidence to ride by myself a lot.
Closing Thoughts
- If you had to sum up your love for riding in a single sentence, what would it be?
Andrea: There is a sense of freedom in riding solo in the wind on the highway -it’s the best therapy ever!
- What message would you like to send to other women considering taking up motorcycling?
Andrea: Know your limits, trust yourself, you’ve got this! Don’t overthink! Enjoy the ride!
Photographers: Sierra Grace Koder: www.sierragracephotography.com
Kevin Tobey: www.theimmortalimage.com
Caleb Pike: @somethinginyourbeard
