The optimum Burning Man bike is a single speed beach cruiser.  This playa bicycle is characterized by:

• Fat tires.  2.0″ wide or wider pneumatic tires to  allow your bike to easily glide over the sand and soft spots in Black Rock City and to provide some cushion on the washboard playa roads.
• Single speed drive train.  No chain derailleurs to get bent in transport or cables to get gunked up with playa grit. One speed is all you need on the playa.
• Coaster brake. A simple back pedal brake that is perfectly adequate for flat playa riding. There are no brake cable or brake alignment maintenance issues with a coaster brake.
• Saddle. A wide, cushy, sprung, comfortable bike seat. Consider a “seat cover” so that the black vinyl saddle doesn’t get so hot in the sun and burn your ass.
• Kickstand. To park your bike easily. A tennis ball attached to the end helps the kickstand to not sink into the sand.
• Lights.  The more lights the better – but at the minimum have a headlight and a tail light plus extra batteries.
• Lock.  Every bike needs a lock at the burn.  A simple cable combo lock or word lock works fine at BRC.
• Comfortable upright riding position. Beach cruisers are easy and fun to ride.
• Reliable.  Make sure your Burning Man bicycle is in good workable order. So:  1. tires in good shape – they hold air and are not rotted 2. chain is not rusty 3. wheels, cranks and pedals turn smoothly. If you have any doubts take it to your local bike shop before the burn for a tune up.

Keep it simple!

“Having a bicycle at Burning Man is crucial, if not essential, to your overall enjoyment and experience within Black Rock City. Given the rapid growth and expansion of the city in recent years, a pedal-powered means of navigation is a prudent, high-priority item when you’re packing.” ~ Burningman.org