Opinions On This

I'd say that's either a very old tyre (there should be a date on the sidewall) or a manufacturing defect. The knobs in the top photo look like they're hollow!? I've had aggressive off road tyres suffer knob tearing but it looked nothing like that.

 

I agree with @Pegscraper, that looks like a defect and coupled with the fact it's a new tyre I would be taking it back to the supplier or fitter for inspection

 

"Hi all,
does anyone know what could have caused this?"

Wheelies

Seriously though, I'd go for trapped air bubbles in the manufacturing process - return to supplier.

 

Those blocks are hollow surely this is a manufacturing fault? Take it back to the tyre fitter/dealer you bought it from.

 

I have seen similar damage like this, one was caused by a worn cattle grid, others damaged like this by a sharp rock, it is more common than you think, last year riding my STRS my new set of Metzler RRs suffered the same fate (cattle grid). Ride safe all from an ageing Rocker.

 

I would send an email with the photos to the tyre manufacturer and see what they say.........nothing to lose

 

'Knob tearing'!!!

 

@Rkt120:
It looks like "rubber bugs" have taken up residence in your tire!
Joking aside.
This is clearly a production defect. I would also absolutely connect with the tire manufacturer!