Alternate versions

There are two different endings to this film in circulation. The full version ends with David Essex lifting his arms in victory as his motorbike crosses the finish line. Seconds after he does so the bike begins to wobble, then spins out of control and crashes spectacularly. The second version concludes with a freeze-frame immediately after Essex crosses the line and raises his arms.

The "happy" or alternate ending was the U.S theatrical release, and also the version released on DVD in the U.K in 2003. The opening titles also differ

On its initial release in the UK in 1980, the film was given a AA (over 14) certificate. The producers were unhappy that many younger David Essex fans were prohibited from seeing the movie so a few months later the film was re-released with an A certificate. Some profanity was re dubbed and a few scenes of nudity were removed to achieve the lower rating.

The A/UK PG/12/US PG rated version was largely prepared as a version specifically for network TV