Born: 1939 (Missoula, Mont.)
Biography:
Mona Ehnes is a long-time champion of off-highway motorcyclists’ rights. Born in Missoula, Mont., in 1939, she began riding a Honda 50 in the early 1960s and helped her husband, Vic, run a motorcycle shop that sold Hodakas and other brands. Ehnes entered the fight for motorcyclists’ rights in 1967 when controversial legislation was introduced that would have restricted off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding opportunities in her home state of Montana. From that point on, Mona Ehnes has been at the front lines of the OHV rights battle, dedicating her life to protecting off-highway vehicle recreation and advocating for the rights of motorcyclists.
In 1984, Ehnes became one of the founding members of the Great Falls Trail Bike Riders Association, the largest and most active OHV club in Montana, boasting over 600 members. This marked a significant milestone in her advocacy work, as it provided her with a platform to unite like-minded individuals in the fight for off-highway motorcyclists’ rights. Not stopping there, Ehnes also played a key role as a founding member of the Montana Trail Vehicle Riders Association (MTVRA), further cementing her commitment to the cause.
Throughout her career, Ehnes has taken on various leadership roles to further advance the rights of off-highway motorcyclists. She has served as the legislative liaison for MTVRA and has been the editor of the Montana Trail Rider News. Her dedication and expertise earned her a position as the executive assistant to the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council, a testament to her unwavering commitment and valuable contributions.
In addition to her advocacy work, Mona Ehnes also played a pivotal role in the development of the Montana On the Right Trail ethics education program. This program aimed to instill responsible OHV riding practices and promote the conservation of natural resources. Ehnes continues to administer this program, ensuring that future generations of off-highway motorcyclists understand the importance of ethics and sustainability.
Recognizing her remarkable achievements and significant contributions, Ehnes was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2009. This prestigious honor highlighted her tireless efforts in protecting off-highway vehicle recreation and acknowledged her as a true legend in the off-highway vehicle community. Kathy Van Kleeck, senior vice president of government relations for the Motorcycle Industry Council, expressed her admiration for Ehnes, praising her as a quiet leader who sets the gold standard through her volunteer work and dedication to the cause. Van Kleeck further emphasized Ehnes’ relentless passion and can-do spirit, stressing that no one could be more deserving of such a prestigious honor.
Mona Ehnes continues to inspire and motivate other off-highway motorcyclists, encouraging them to get involved and protect the sport they love. Her unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on the off-highway vehicle community, making her an influential figure in women’s history and a shining example for future advocates.
Awards:
– Induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2009