So, my rear PP 2ct is fairly new (<1000mi) and all of a sudden these weird horizontal seams/markings have appeared all the way around on both sides. They're about 2" in length and spaced about 3" apart. Is this a defect or something I should be worried about?

(Click to enlarge)

 

It just looks like indentations from the molding process that are now becoming more evident as the tire wears/discolors. I don't know the specific cord layout of Pilot Powers but their could also be reinforcement cords that run across the tire at those lines. I would bet that those markings are a combination of reinforcement and the molding process.

It doesn't look like the tire is seperating or anything like that.

Maybe someone else with these tires can look and see if they have them?

 

Thats normal ive had those marks on my 2ct's.

 

Michelins are molded into small sections like that. If you look at this pic in this link you can get a better detail
Michelin North America Motorcycle Tires

On a different note for the love of god go to Jennings or head to the mountains and kill that Michelin Man. I'm just fucking with you. Looks like he's half way dead.

 

Wow, the seams are really visible in that photo. And yes, the Michelin man is sad. I'm still healing a shattered hand, so I'm not yet able to ride like I once was..... not that there's anywhere to really push it in pinellas county anyway.