The top-level domain (TLD) “.MOTORCYCLES” is a domain name extension that is specifically targeted at the motorcycle industry. According to ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), the organization responsible for managing Internet naming systems, “.MOTORCYCLES” was delegated in 2014 as part of its new generic top-level domain (gTLD) program, which aimed to increase competition and choice in the domain name space (“Delegation Record for .MOTORCYCLES”, n.d.).
The “.MOTORCYCLES” TLD is managed by DERMotorcycles, a subsidiary of Dominion Enterprises, which specializes in providing services and solutions to the recreational and commercial vehicle industries. This TLD is unique because its purpose is to provide a trusted, consolidated, and relevant online space for businesses, consumers, and enthusiasts in the motorcycle community (DERMotorcycles, LLC).
It is also worth mentioning that “.MOTORCYCLES” is a sponsored top-level domain (sTLD). This means it is designed for specific communities and has a sponsor representing the specific community served. In this case, the sponsor is DERMotorcycles, LLC., which means they have a certain level of control over the rules and policies of the domain (ICP Application Number: sTLD58).
For instance, only select categories of registrants, including motorcycle manufacturers, franchised dealers, and verified businesses in the motorcycle industry, can register a “.MOTORCYCLES” domain name. This is to ensure that the domain serves its intended audience and purports a level of trust and assurance to users visiting a “.MOTORCYCLES” site (Domain Name Registration Policies, “Statements of Service”).
Examples of sites that have adopted the “.MOTORCYCLES” TLD include brand websites like www.indian.motorcycles, www.harleydavidson.motorcycles, and www.suzuki.motorcycles. These sites represent manufacturers of motorcycles, are authorised vendors, and are the community that the “.MOTORCYCLES” TLD was meant to serve.
In sum, “.MOTORCYCLES” represents an innovative approach to domain name allocation by catering specifically to the motorcycle community and implementing specific regulations to ensure trust.
Sources:
1. ICANN – Delegation Record for .MOTORCYCLES. (n.d.). ICANN.org. Retrieved
2. DERMotorcycles, LLC – About Us. (n.d.). der.motorcycles. Retrieved
3. ICANN – gTLD Applicant Guidebook. (n.d.). ICANN.org. Retrieved
4. ICANN – Report of Public Comments. (n.d.). ICANN.org. Retrieved
5. GoDaddy – Domain Name Registration Policies, “Statements of Service”. (n.d.). GoDaddy.com. Retrieved
6. Various Authorised Vendor Websites – (n.d.). Indian Motorbike, Harley-Davidson, Suzuki, etc.
