Tires are usually shipped and sold with "preservatives" still in them to help keep them on shelves or in warehouses before sold. There are two thoughts on this.
One, you can merely "scrub" the top off with either riding or with something like sandpaper to get it off.
Two, you have to ride them easy for a little bit to force all the preservatives out of the tire.
EDIT: I have no idea who the guy is. If this is his first bike and he's a squid, at least he's got all his gear. spyordie007 also makes a good point about cold too.

I almost highsided once after getting on in 40 degree temps. Gotta remember to get those babies up to temperature.