Lime has reminded riders that its bikes are “not for jousting” after footage emerged of two men dressed as medieval knights duelling on the rental e-bikes in east London.
Hundreds of people gathered at London Fields over the weekend to watch artist Jack Carden and actor Camtholomew the First face off in the unusual showdown.
Videos circulating on social media show the pair wearing chain mail, red and black cloaks and full suits of armour, including helmets, as they rode towards each other on the bright green bikes while wielding striped poles.
The crowd can be heard chanting “joust, joust, joust” as the pair charge at one another, before one rider is knocked from his bike after being jabbed by his opponent.
A spokesperson for Lime said on Monday: “We always love seeing Londoners come together and build a sense of community in unexpected ways.
“While we appreciate the medieval spirit, safety must always come first.
“Lime bikes are designed for getting around the city, not for jousting.
“We discourage anyone from attempting similar events, to help keep riders and those around them safe.”
Posting on social media in the run up to the weekend, Mr Carden said the “free public joust” was “performance art”.
In a video from the event posted to both competitors’ social media accounts, a voiceover says: “I want to remind you all why we are here, not only does this mean some artistic violence but to come together and celebrate art, to remind ourselves that we’re all the same and that what we need right now in this world is a little bit more love.”