Artists stage second Lime bike joust in east London park despite safety warning
Artist Jack Carden and actor Cameron Carnegie-Brown staged a second joust on Lime rental e-bikes in an east London park, drawing hundreds of spectators. The performance followed an earlier duel that attracted attention online and went ahead despite Lime’s warning that its bikes are intended for travel, not jousting.
The event, called “Lime bike Jousting 2: No Horses, No Mercy”, had more than 5,000 expressions of interest, though the location was disclosed only 90 minutes beforehand. After five rounds, Carnegie-Brown was declared the winner; organisers said they had first aiders and stewards and had spoken with police, while Hackney Council said it had not given permission for the event.
In short
- Hundreds watched a second joust on Lime e-bikes in east London.
- More than 5,000 people registered interest in the event.
- The organisers said safety staff were present, but Hackney Council said it had not approved it.
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The case for
Supporters could argue the joust was a deliberately staged public performance that drew a large audience, with organisers saying they arranged first aiders and stewards and spoke with police. They may see the event as playful artistic expression in a public space, provided it is managed responsibly and does not cause harm or disruption.
The case against
Critics could argue that rental e-bikes are designed for transport, not mounted combat, so using them for jousting risks injury to participants and spectators and may damage shared equipment. The council’s statement that it had not given permission also raises concerns about public safety, disruption and accountability when a popular event is staged without local approval.
Explained simply
Lime is a company that rents electric bikes through an app, with bikes available to pick up and leave in many parts of London. East London’s parks are public spaces managed by local councils, which can set rules for events held there.
Jack Carden is an artist and Cameron Carnegie-Brown is an actor; both have taken part in performances using Lime bikes. Their event drew on the tradition of jousting, in which riders compete by trying to knock one another off course, but used rental bikes instead of horses.
The event raises questions about how public spaces are used and who is responsible for safety when an organised performance attracts a crowd. Lime’s warning and Hackney Council’s position are relevant because the bikes are provided for travel and the council manages the park.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “‘Lime bike jousters’ draws in hundreds of spectators at London park despite e-bike company’s warning”.