About Spokes Global (a division of e-Cycliste Inc.)

Our Story

Spokes Global began with a simple idea: to keep good mechanics in the cycling industry and make it easier for riders to connect with trusted local experts.

After years of running e-Cycliste, a successful independent bike shop in Gatineau, Quebec, co-founders Natasha Zanolin and Eric Thibault saw first-hand how challenging it can be for small bike shops and independent mechanics to stay competitive in a changing industry. Rising costs, complex supply chains, and limited access to parts were pushing skilled tradespeople to leave the field they loved.

Determined to make a difference, they set out to build something new: a digital platform that gives mechanics access to parts, tools, and visibility, while helping cyclists easily find and book local repair services.

Today, Spokes Global is growing through collaboration with manufacturers, distributors, and industry partners, supported by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). Our mission is to strengthen local cycling communities, support small businesses, and make professional bicycle repair more accessible, affordable, and sustainable for everyone.

Eric Thibault is a seasoned entrepreneur and former F-18 Avionics Technician with the Canadian Armed Forces, bringing over 35 years of technical and operational expertise to the cycling industry. After a distinguished 26-year military career, Eric founded e-Cycliste, a full-service bike shop in Gatineau, Quebec, where he built a loyal customer base of over 6,000 riders and achieved a near-perfect 4.9/5 Google rating.

With a deep understanding of business operations, supplier relations, and customer service, Eric has developed strong partnerships with leading manufacturers such as Shimano and HLC. His leadership, precision, and commitment to excellence continue to shape Spokes Global, where he focuses on empowering independent mechanics through access to parts, tools, and digital solutions that keep the cycling community thriving.

A dedicated community advocate, Eric supports local cycling initiatives, mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, and proudly contributes to Canadian veterans’ causes.

Natasha Zanolin is a visionary entrepreneur and senior advisor with more than 20 years of leadership experience across government, higher education, health, and the non-profit sector. Known for driving organizational transformation and building strong partnerships, she combines strategic insight with community-driven purpose to help businesses and social ventures grow sustainably.

As Co-Founder of e-Cycliste and Spokes Global, Natasha leads strategy, partnerships, and digital development, guiding the company’s vision to support independent bike mechanics and connect communities through accessible, technology-enabled services. Her work reflects a commitment to local economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and empowering skilled tradespeople.

Natasha holds an MBA in International Business (University of Cumbria, pending conferral) and is a Certified Change Management Specialist (CMS). She brings a proven record of leading $25M+ national initiatives, advising boards, and shaping multi-sector collaborations that deliver measurable impact.