Like it or not, the Burning Man event evolves as technology evolves. In recent years, that means a culture of cycling and walking has been disrupted by folks on electric bikes in a hurry to get to the next big DJ set or art installation eye-candy. Prior to the 2026 event, I created a short series of videos spoofing DJ and long-time burner Carl Cox, and his trademark "oh yes, oh yes!" catchphrase to say "oh no" to going over 5MPH on the playa.

AI videos are considered controversial content in some corners of the the Burning Man community. But they create conversation and drive social sharing of messages via unofficial channels, reaching the kind of audience that isn't pouring over the official event guide to understand social norms. With over 130K views across three videos on Instagram alone, with thousands of likes and shares, I hijacked the social media buzz around the burn for some much needed common sense, delivered Cox-style.

CARL COX : TRAFFIC COP

SAYING "OH NO, OH NO!" TO BURNING MAN'S e-BIKE ISSUE