While sitting in my car today the rear tube on my bike blew out. I pulled it off hoping to replace the tube, when I found the tire bead was a little torn. Is this still ok to use for a bit until I get a new tire, or should I replace the tire before riding?

I'd replace it before you ride it.

No, it will blow out every tube you put in it

Yeah... The bead is damaged and the tube will push through, bubble out, and blow.

Sorry, but the tire is toast.

Thanks for the info. I guess I might as well replace the front tire at the same time.

Have any recommendations for new tires? I'm going to mostly be commuting on pavement, and every once in a while hitting a little stretch of downhill dirt road.

Yeah, your tire is toast.

I ride on street slicks. For the rare jaunt off road they seem to be stable.

Actually, its good you asked. When I looked on my rear tire to see what brand I'm riding, I noticed a small spot of tear on the sidewall. New tire time for me too. I only got 4 years of wear out of them.

Depends on if you mind a little crash.

Take it to a LBS and get a professional opinion - it doesn't sound good though.

EDIT: Oh sorry, I didn't see you had a picture - I can not see a tear in that picture. If it's just a tiny nick then you're OK, but if the bead is broken, then I'd lean toward replacing it. I've ridden on much worse (based on your picture).