The rev of motorcycles could be heard from miles away Thursday as thousands of bikers from across the country arrived for the annual Republic of Texas Biker rally.

Governor Rick Perry led 40,000 bikers from across the country through downtown Austin as part of the annual parade.

Eddie Mackicek looks forward to this event every year.

“I love the vroom vroom. It's fantastic,” he said

There are a cast of characters who come to Austin to show off their bikes and party.

 “There are so many professionals that come down to the city, attorneys and doctors. The revenue it generates for the city is unbelievable,” said Mackicek.

The rally is expected to bring in about 36 million dollars that will be spent in Austin motels, hotels, bars, and restaurants.

Sal Olivas is General Manager of Ruth Cris Steak House in downtown Austin.  He says this weekend revenue is equivalent U.T. football weekend.

“This time of year most of the restaurants downtown are slow, so this is a little shot in the arm for the summer,” he said

Oscar Mendez is a financial advisor who looks forward to the rally every year.

“If you ride a bike you're part of the club it's the camaraderie between all the bikers the people that ride bikes that counts. It's great,” Mendez said.

With an estimated 200,000 bikers comes a traffic nightmare. Police are asking motorists to keep their eyes open and make sure to give the bikers plenty of room.

.