Conceived in 1995 and founded in 1996, STAR Touring and Riding Association is an international family riding organization. As the, "Official STAR Organization of Yamaha Motor Corp.," STAR is a non-political, non-confrontational association. Its main focus is on family, fun, camaraderie and RIDING. All brands of motorcycles are welcome. Comprising over 20,000 families and over 150 chapters, STAR recognizes safety as a first priority. The STAR community is a mix of riders with varied riding experiences. Chapter rides follow the highway laws and limits, to keep everyone as safe as possible. This allows everyone to enjoy the ride and not have new riders feel overly stressed. STAR chapter rides do not include "tavern runs", and consumption of alcoholic beverages on chapter rides is prohibited. We want to see you back safely for the next ride. If you are looking for a family motorcycle association, with a lot of pride, spirit and camaraderie without the "attitude" you have found the right organization.

Chapter #161 proudly serves the counties of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz in California, USA.  We enjoy some of the finest motorcycle roads in the country, along with some of the most diverse scenery you can find anywhere.  Riders from other chapter are encouraged to join us and annually we proudly host a large multi-chapter gathering for the annual Hollister Motorcycle Rally each July.

Star Touring Chapter #161 Officers

Chapter President- Kelly Riggs
Sergeant At Arms- Phil Hickenbottom
VP & Secretary- Julie Westfall
Treasurer - Eric Popham
Ladies of the Star Representative - Jennifer Popham
Shepherd - Scott Westfall
Tail Gunner & STAR Vet Rep - Tom Broome

Other Important Positions

Tin Star Rep - Phil Hickenbottom

The Brass

West Regional Directors - Sam Laughlin & Shauna Manina
State Directors California Mid-Valley & Bay Area - Steve & Dallas Podesta

How To Join STAR Chapter #161

You can join us for up to three group rides before joining STAR Chapter #161.  Once you decide to join the group you simply visit STAR National and fill out the membership form.  Once you have your membership number you can order your patches and rockers and you can enjoy all the benefits of membership.  You do not have to ride any particular type of motorcycle to join STAR.

Currently being  a member of STAR Chapter #161 does not cost any additional fees besides the membership fee collected by STAR National.

Chapter #161 is supported solely by it's members and monies generated with fund raising events and shared with our charity partners.  We have never been nor will be ever be a for-profit organization.

STAR Chapter # 161 Charity Partners

• The Salvation Army
• Feed The Children
• STAR Family Foundation

STAR Chapter # 161  Service Areas [map]

• Boulder Creek
• Ben Lomond
• Felton
• Davenport
• Scotts Valley
• Watsonville
• Freedom
• Soquel
• Aptos
• Capitola
• Santa Cruz

• Salinas
• Monterey
• Prunedale
• King City
• Aromas
• Castroville
• Soledad
• Carmel
• Pacific Grove
• Carmel Valley
• Seaside
• Spreckels
• Del Rey Oaks
• Marina
• Gonzales

• Hollister
• San Juan Bautista
• Tres Pinos
• Paicines