Not all roads use such “limiting” devices with more than half of the roads showing no such markings. Where they are shown, even when new and in full view of Indonesia’s “Finest” (the police force for those who are confused, it’s called sarcasm) they are treated with utter contempt which should be reserved for most of the so-called “Finest”.

At least 90% of Indonesian drivers and motorcycle riders use the racing line on any curve in any road. I remember being taught in a defensive driving class to consider that leaning a motorcycle may take your upper body across the centre line so more care should be taken.

Here it is more a case of leaning the motorcycle taking the rider’s upper body across the opposite side walk (where members of that endangered species exist) and the limits seem to be set by the kaki lima gerobak selling noodles or other delicacies.

Where one half of a road is blocked by a parked (or double parked) vehicle the deciding factor in passing these is not whose lane is blocked but who gets to the opening first or can act in the most imperious manner.

On multi lane carriageways the lane marking white line finally comes into popular use. Most drivers use it as a guide for where the centre of their vehicle should be. They can move a bit to the left or right as required to stop any chance of getting around them, despite the fact that they are driving very slowly because it is hard to move at speed while typing an SMS on your cell phone.

In many places use of the left lane is seen as a sign of unmanliness and is to be avoided. As a nod to the legalities many truck drivers keep one set of wheels just across the lane marker which makes the space too narrow to get by. This means that the only time you can get around a truck is when the road takes a bend to the left when the racing line comes into play.

This article is the first of series that I am planning to write, keep your eyes open for the next. Suggestions on topics are welcome as well.