MAPLESVILLE — Scores of motorcycle racers spent Friday night putting the final touches on their machines before the start of today’s eighth annual KTM/Husaberg Perry Mountain 24-hour Challenge.

The race, which includes a 10- to 12-mile course, begins at 10 a.m. today.

The Bus Drivers, the only 250 Expert Class team that includes all-Alabama racers, worked on their motorcycle Friday night.

“We hope to do better this year,” said Tyler Kyle of Warrior. “We had 42 laps, and the winning team had 48.”

The top team wins $2,500, followed by $1,500 for second, $1,000 third, $750 for fourth and $500 for fifth. Single riders can win $500 for first place, $300 for second and $200 for third.

Although the field had dwindled since last year because of the economy, riders from as far away as Washington state, Ohio and even Australia are entered. Alabama and California are the only states that have 24-hour races.

The exact location of the starting point is Reynolds Pasture, eight miles south of Maplesville on County Road 26. Signs mark the turn off Highway 22 north of Selma.

The entry fee is $450 per team, $100 per single and $200 per duo. Each motorcycle must have headlights, and most riders have lights on their helmets.

The gate fee is $15 per person for the weekend, with 12 years old and younger free.

For information on the race, go to www.24hourchallenge.com.