Between freedoms and (in)subordinations: experiences of female urban cycle delivery workers

Abstract Female cycle delivery workers are located at the intersection between bicycle use, gender relations, and delivery activities, and may be subject to the existing power relations in each sphere, interconnectedly. This article investigates the influence of these relationships on the experiences of female cycle delivery workers in the cities of Belo Horizonte and São Paulo. A content analysis of semi--structured interviews with fourteen cycle couriers was carried out. The results show the influence of power relations, especially on perceptions of insecurity, and the provisional and complementary aspect associated with the activity. Despite this, the transforming potential of the activity was also demonstrated, as it can provide an experience of great value in terms of female empowerment, freedom, autonomy, and resilience.