A load bearing tension member (16) for an elevator system (10) includes a plurality of tension elements (24) arrayed across a tension member (16) width. The tension elements (24) are offset from a tension member central axis (42), the central axis (42) bisecting a tension member (16) thickness and extending across the tension member (16) width. The tension elements (24) include a plurality of fibers (38) extending along a length of the tension element (24), and a matrix material (40) in which the plurality of fibers (38) are embedded. A jacket (28) at least partially encapsulates the plurality of tension elements (24).