Frame Builder Feature: Greg Wagenfuhr of Axial Bikes

Since founding Axial Bikes in 2019, Greg Wagenfuhr has been crafting custom bike frames that are as unique as their riders. With a passion for bikes that dates back decades and hands-on experience as a mechanic, Greg's journey into frame building has been shaped by a blend of academic curiosity, practical expertise, and a deep love for cycling. In this interview, Greg shares insights into his craft, the challenges he faces, and his vision for the future of Axial Bikes.

How long have you been building frames, and what inspired you to start?

I built my first frame in 2004 but officially started Axial Bikes in 2019. As for what inspired me, it’s hard to pinpoint because there are so many reasons. I’m an academic by training—I write, publish, and teach—but I also can’t sit still indoors. I’ve been riding bikes for decades and have worked as a mechanic on and off. Frame building became a way to reconnect with the craft. It started as a hobby, but friends wanted bikes, and things grew from there.

Can you describe your frame-building process?

It begins with conversations. I spend time talking with customers to understand their riding style, preferences, and what kind of bike they need. From there, I handle the design and planning.

Once we’ve finalized the design, I source the tubing and begin construction. I typically start with the front triangle, blocking up the main tubes, mitering them, and adding details like drilling boss holes or slotting the seat tube. Then I move to the rear triangle. Throughout, I weld as much as possible on the jig to ensure the frame is perfectly straight when it comes off.

After the frame is built, I sandblast it and apply the finish, whether it’s Cerakote or anodizing, both of which I do in-house.

What materials do you primarily use for your frames?

I work mainly with steel and titanium. The choice of tubing—brand, wall thickness, and size—depends on the customer’s needs. Sometimes I use custom-bent tubes or straight gauge tubing for specific builds.

Do you have any unique techniques or signature details in your frames?

Yes, a few things stand out:

• Fully internal cable routing, even with chainstay yokes, which requires custom slot reinforcements.
• Internal dropper post routing for MTB and gravel bikes.
• Color match/contract custom headtube badges and serial number plates made from brass, copper, stainless steel, or anodized titanium.
• I also do all the finishing work in-house, whether it’s Cerakote or titanium anodizing. This not only gives me creative control but also keeps costs and turnaround times down.

What’s a memorable build you’ve worked on?

One that stands out is my personal cargo e-bike. It’s got two batteries and can haul anything—groceries, lumber, kids, even adults. It’s handled singletrack and long adventures with ease.

Another is my first commercial build, a 27.5 plus bike, and belt-drive singlespeed with fully internal cables. It was stolen but eventually recovered, and I’m in the process of restoring it. That bike reminds me of how far I’ve come since starting in 2019.

What are some challenges you face as a frame builder?

Location is a big one. I’m based in Canon City, Colorado, which is great for MTB and gravel riding, but it’s overshadowed by nearby towns like Salida and Colorado Springs. The lower cost of living allows me to offer competitive prices, but I have to work harder to reach customers with disposable income.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Sharing my passion. Whether it’s hearing from happy customers or seeing them return for a second bike, the joy that my frames bring to people is the best reward.

Is there a specific frame design you’re especially proud of?

Each one is unique! I’ve been really excited about some recent titanium XC/downcountry builds. They feel like a rocket, comfortably riding on pavement at near road bike speeds while also being fun on lots of the rough xc trails.

What are your goals for Axial Bikes?

I’m focused on improving quality and customization. I’m not chasing growth for its own sake. Instead, I want Axial Bikes to be about meaningful relationships and exceptional craftsmanship. Aristotle said it well: those who pursue wealth for its own sake are mad. Thriving comes by excellence and wisdom, not the acquisition of capital or stuff (paraphrased from Economics).

Are there any new technologies or trends in frame building that excite you?

I like to critically appraise new technologies before getting overly excited. In part, the trade in metal (non-aluminum) bicycle frames is seemingly always on the brink of being technically obsolete for a variety of reasons. The cost/benefit ratio of high quality steel bikes means big brands won't touch them. They'll never be lighter, stiffer, more aero, or cheaper, no matter how much hydroforming, 3D printing, and CNC machining improves. Until sustainability is actually taken seriously as a primary value and carbon/plastic bikes are abandoned, metal bikes will always be niche products.

That also means prioritizing sustainability, aesthetics, and relatively timeless/long-term design makes me somewhat skeptical of the non-hyped ROI of some tech. That said, there are a few places where CNC and 3D printing are proving useful, in yokes, dropouts, and linkages. I'm sure we'll see some standardized designs being sold by framebuilder supply firms soon, and that will keep the costs reasonable.

I'm planning on building a steel road frame with hydro disc brakes, downtube shifters, 2x12 gears, fully internal cable/hose and 32mm tire clearance. Why? I grew up riding an 80s 10 speed. I like the direct friction mechanical connection of the lever and the derailleur, kind of like playing a musical instrument. You get the feel of it in a way no one else does. But for someone who lives next to Pikes Peak and other epic descents, rim brakes are dangerously bad and I've witnessed firsthand a serious crash whose culprit was rim heat blowing tires. Such a bike can also be UDH and SRAM AXS compatible too, so I love how versatile such a frame could be. That about sums up my view of technology.

Any final thoughts about your journey as a frame builder?

It’s been an incredible experience. The frame-building community is collaborative and supportive. I love being part of an industry where even small builders like me can make an impact.

To learn more about Axial Bikes, head to axialbikes.com and connect with Greg @axialbikes on Instagram.