About .bike domain
.bike is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by the registry Donuts (Grand Hollow, LLC). It was delegated to the root zone in November 2013 as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program, with Donuts being the sole applicant for the string. The registry agreement was signed in August 2013, and the extension was launched without a formal landrush period, moving directly from its sunrise phase to general availability.
Who can register .bike domain
Registration for a .bike domain name is open to anyone globally. There are no geographic, organizational, or trademark-based restrictions for general availability. The registry does not employ pre-registration verification, operating as an open TLD to allow broad access. This policy is designed to provide greater expression on the Internet for all registrants.
How to register .bike domain
- Search for your desired .bike domain name using a domain name registrar's search tool to check its availability.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy protection among different accredited registrars.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting.
Typical uses of .bike domain
The .bike extension is commonly used by individuals, businesses, and communities associated with cycling. This includes bicycle manufacturers, local bike shops, cycling clubs, event organizers for races or tours, fitness bloggers, and repair services. Registrants choose .bike for its immediate, descriptive connection to the cycling world, offering a clear and memorable alternative to more generic extensions. It helps websites instantly communicate their niche focus to visitors.
Tips for registering .bike domain
- The TLD launched with a sunrise period for trademark holders but did not have a separate landrush phase before general availability.
- As an open gTLD operated by Donuts, standard registration and renewal terms apply, with prices set by individual registrars.
- WHOIS privacy services are typically available through registrars, but you should confirm this feature during the purchase process.
- The registry has stated its intent to control abuse through extensive user and rights protection policies, including standard ICANN remediation procedures.
Frequently asked questions about .bike domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .bike domain?
As of today, .bike domains start from $5.38/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $98.16/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .bike domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .bike domain registration, with the cheapest option at $5.38/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .bike domain?
The registry for .bike domains is Identity Digital, administered by Binky Moon, LLC.
Who can register a .bike domain?
There are no eligibility restrictions for registering a .bike domain; it is open to the global public. The registry's application explicitly stated it would not use pre-registration verification, aiming to avoid denying access to legitimate registrants. You do not need to provide documentation proving an affiliation with cycling or any specific industry to complete your registration.
Can I transfer a .bike domain between registrars?
.bike domains can be transferred between ICANN-accredited registrars following the standard inter-registrar transfer policy. To initiate a transfer, you will need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked. Transfers are typically completed within 5-7 days after the gaining registrar submits the request, provided the domain is not within a 60-day lock period following a previous registration or transfer.
Was there a special period for trademark owners to register .bike domains?
Yes, a sunrise period was held for trademark owners before general availability. This period allowed rights holders to secure domain names matching their validated trademarks. It ran from November 26, 2013, to January 24, 2014, after which the TLD opened for general registration by anyone.
What rights protection mechanisms apply to .bike domains?
The .bike registry adheres to all mandatory ICANN rights protection mechanisms, including the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) and the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system. These provide trademark owners with avenues to address cases of cybersquatting. The registry also participated in the Trademark Clearinghouse to support sunrise registrations and provide trademark claims notices.
Are there any content restrictions for .bike websites?
There are no specific content policies unique to the .bike TLD beyond the standard prohibitions against illegal activity required by the registry agreement. Registrants must comply with all applicable laws. The registry's application noted plans for clearly defined remediation and takedown policies that fit within ICANN's requirements for addressing abuse.
