Bajaj - Orange Power Wheelers of Jakarta

The Bajaj is a three wheelers vehicle that can be commonly seen in the streets of Jakarta. It is painted bright orange, and is in fact a motorbike with a cabin. The driver sits in front of the cabin while the passengers can ride on the rear of the cabin. The thing about this wheeler is that it is very compact in size. But it can accomodate 2 passengers quite comfortably.



The bajaj can only be found in minor roads in Jakarta, as they are banned from travelling in main roads and highways. The distinct advantage is that because of its compact size, it can zip in and out any road and small alley with ease. So when there is a heavy traffic congestion on the road, the bajaj is relatively speaking - the King of the road.

If you are someone looking for comfortable ride, then forget about taking the bajaj. It is noisy and non airconditioned. During a hot day in the afternoon, you will sweat it out in the streets riding a bajaj. You will be breathing pure street air, combining with fumes from other vehicles and plenty of dust. Also your safety as a passenger is dependent upon Captain Orange - which is the bajaj driver. The cabin of this vehicle is not made of strong armour of steel. To me, the cabin seems like been carved out from an oversize beer can or a biscuit container.
Before you ride on this wheeler, first thing first - fixed the rate ( $) with Captain Orange. Tell him your destination and make sure you fixed the fares. You see, there are no meters nor fixed rates - it is the free economy at work. I normally do not bargain even if the rider quote a slightly higher rate. As I see it, these people are not having an easy life making a living riding these wheelers and also I do not ride on them often. But I do make it a point to tell them to go slow and not to speed. Safety is paramount.

To some people and groups, the bajaj is a menace or perhaps an eyesore on the roads of Jakarta. They are lobbying that these wheelers be taken off the roads permanently. Recently the government was trying to implement a law for them to switch from using gasoline to natural gas. The bajaj drivers protested. They stage a protest on the roads with their wheelers; causing mass traffic congestion. So what does the future holds for Captain Orange? No one knows. But if you are in Jakarta, why know try riding on a bajaj. Take a photo of yourself beside or in the cabin of this wheeler. It will give you fond memories in the future, that I am sure.

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