About The VanderSpa

The VanderSpa is your boutique Vanderhall AutoCycle specialist based in Denton, Texas. We help owners improve reliability, safety, performance, and driving confidence—with thoughtful upgrades and expert support built around how these machines are actually used.

Founded by automotive performance enthusiast Troy D. Stepp, The VanderSpa exists for one reason: to help Vanderhall owners get the most enjoyment from their vehicles, safely and reliably.

Why Owners Trust Troy

For Troy, automotive performance isn’t a phase—it’s family heritage. His grandfather, O.J. Stepp, was an airplane mechanic during World War II, and later built racing karts for Troy’s father, Neal Stepp, throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Neal went on to become a highly awarded kart road racer, and he made sure Troy grew up with a deep respect for both the machine and the craft.

As Troy likes to say, he was “born with a Hot Wheel in his hand.” And when it came time for Troy to race, Neal was all-in—participating heavily in Troy’s kart campaigns as both coach and mechanic. That foundation led to three consecutive championship-winning endurance kart road-racing seasons in the early 2000s, and later into full-sized sports car track driving—eventually earning invitations to provide in-car, on-track instruction for drivers with multiple high-performance driving education organizations across the South-Central U.S.

Combined with his background as a third-generation mechanic and a technology entrepreneur since 1999, Troy—with the support of those closest to him—has built The VanderSpa into a trusted, respected resource for Vanderhall owners globally.

What We Do

We specialize in enhancing the reliability, safety, performance, style, and functionality of all Vanderhall models—Laguna, Venice, Carmel, and every variant in between.

We’ve also developed our “VanderSpa High Performance” (VHP) structured performance program for Vanderhalls—so vehicle enhancements are done in a purposeful order, with reliability and drivability kept front-and-center. It’s a measured approach that helps owners build the right machine for their goals without guessing, overbuilding, or creating new problems along the way by “putting the cart before the horse.”

Just as important as the work itself: many owners have invested significant time and resources into their Vanderhall(s). Troy’s goal is to help you avoid the frustration of common pitfalls, stay excited about your machine, and feel supported every step of the way.

What Makes The VanderSpa Different

- Safety-first mindset — the fun doesn’t matter if the fundamentals aren’t handled

- Owner-to-owner guidance — practical support from someone who lives the Vanderhall world

- VHP structured performance program — upgrades done in a deliberate, tested sequence

How It Started

Troy’s love of the road has always been hands-on. Before Vanderhalls, that passion included years of two-wheeled motorcycles—from sport bikes to long-distance touring machines—and plenty of road trips with his supportive wife, Elizabeth.

Troy’s fascination with Vanderhalls began by chance on a “guys” motorcycle trip through the Texas Hill Country. After spotting a sleek, retro-inspired Vanderhall in a hotel parking lot, he was immediately captivated by the open-wheeled, racecar-like design. He also had a hunch his wife might enjoy that kind of fun even more than spirited two-up miles on two wheels.

Later, after renting a friend’s Vanderhall Blackjack for a day-date with Elizabeth, they were hooked. They soon sold their big BMW K1600GTL touring bike, purchased a lightly used 2019 Venice GT, and immersed themselves in the Vanderworld.

As Troy began making performance and reliability improvements to their own Vanderhall, fellow owners took notice. What started as friendly advice quickly evolved into hands-on assistance and technical support for other enthusiasts. Word spread—and Troy’s reputation as a go-to technical expert in the regional Vanderhall community grew quickly.

Community-First Philosophy

Troy often says: “There’s no such thing as too much information.” In that spirit, The VanderSpa believes in collaboration over competition and embraces the growing network of experienced specialists within the Vanderhall community. The goal is simple: elevate the ownership experience for everyone invested in the brand.

Safety Above All

Vanderhalls are incredibly fun—but they also demand respect.

Troy is a passionate advocate for the right ownership mindset, skill development, and protective gear. That commitment was reinforced by a personal rollover incident in his own Vanderhall in 2024. Even in states where helmets aren’t legally required, Troy strongly encourages all drivers and passengers to use:

- Seat belts

- Full-face helmets

- Eye protection

- A serious approach to driving skill and situational awareness

A Labor of Love

Today, The VanderSpa stands as a trusted, critically acclaimed resource for Vanderhall owners around the globe. Troy’s blend of mechanical expertise, performance background, and client-first mindset has earned him the unofficial title of “Vanderhall Guru” throughout the community—a role he’s proud to fill.

The VanderSpa is more than a shop. It’s a community hub built on passion, integrity, and the pursuit of high performance.