Knights on motorcycles.
Medieval battles aren't just for video gamers. Motorcycle enthusiast Robert Nacke regularly puts on his knight's armour and travels back in time to the 15th century for medieval combat. He competes against other daring warriors in medieval combat, a full- contact sport in which opponents wear armour and use authentic weapons.
A trip back to the Middle Ages
The perfect distraction.
King Arthur style.
King Arthur style.
Medieval combat is growing in popularity, and not just among men. More and more fearless maidens are also joining the action and fighting for glory and honour on the battlefield. Two equal teams of 5, 10, 16 or 21 fighters are pitted against each other in the arena. In true King Arthur style, the knights wear modern suits of protective armour. Just like the pieces of a leather motorcycle suit, all the armour parts have to fit together perfectly to ensure agility in battle despite their bulky weight. A full outfit costs 6,000 euros.
Combat with clear rules.
Combat with clear rules.
Weapons are not included in that price. And there are many weapons: Modern knights can use swords, axes, daggers and clubs. Rules specified by a medieval association dictate how the weapons may be used. Seriously injuring another combatant with a knife or dagger is not permitted. Also, all weapons are dull. "You're not supposed to die during the games," says Nacke with a grin. "Weapons like a war hammer, which has a spike on the end and was invented to pierce armour, are not permitted either," he says. Laughing, Nacke adds: "But we're allowed to use it as a can opener."
Riding motorcycles. Working out. Doing battle.
Riding motorcycles. Working out. Doing battle.
It's nothing unusual for motorcyclists with powerful bikes like the S 1000 XR to enjoy a dose of adrenaline and the feeling of absolute freedom. But medieval combat takes things to a whole new level. It's a sport that requires a lot of physical strength. To win, you need to wipe out your adversaries by delivering heavy blows and kicks, taking hold of opponents and tackling them. That means medieval combat fighters have to have stamina, strength and endurance. Besides riding his XR regularly, Nacke also does CrossFit workouts to gain the necessary strength for punching, kicking and wielding heavy weapons.
Robert Nacke
