How does this happen?

[Dizzledan]

The tire was on the bike when I bought it and has seemingly 6/32" left on it. What would cause this severe cracking? My theory is that the bike hadn't been ridden in a while, tires got deflated, and then temperature changes/freezing caused the rubber to wear. It's close to the rim too, so perhaps it was mounted improperly? I'd like another BT-45 given the glowing reviews they get, but if this is something that is caused by the tire, I don't want to blow $100.

[joshr08]

check the date on the tire.

[Dizzledan]

PAF 1906, so the 19th week of 2006, right?

Also has another sequence: T9702, but I'm not sure which is correct.

[joshr08]

yes i would say its a tire from 2006 and thats why it cracked like that

[weedahoe]

Dry rotted basically

[Dizzledan]

Gotcha. My next question, is can I buy a 130/80-17 instead of a 130/70-17 (which is the stock size)? I want another BT-45, but my local store here: http://www.ironpony.com/ironponydirect/Product.asp/ProdID/178446/ImageName/BRIDGESTON-BT45-.jpg&Kitkey2=BT-45%20BATTLAX&Brand=BRIDGESTONE&Class2=Tires%20and%20Wheels&Class3=Street%20Tires&Class1=STREET%20PRODUCTS#
only has the 80-17 size.

[the mole]

My last rear was a BT45 130/80, current one is a 130/70. The difference in riding is hard to pick, but I slightly preferred the feel of the /80. It will give you very slightly lower rpm at the same road speed (about the width of the tacho needle worth). I just bought whichever type the shop had in stock.