215/55R15 79V TB15+ Blackwall Tire
Michelin TB15 radial tires come with a serious racing pedigree. The TB tread pattern and W or V speed rating are all business. These tires are a fantastic fitment for restored race cars, rally cars and other performance applications requiring a 13-15" tire of this type. For the amateur racer the TB in its intermediate compound form, known as the Michelin TB15, offers the perfect blend of race and high per romance street tire. The TB15 has another Ace up its sleeve, ECE approved! Available in many sizes for European and US autos. TB15 Course competition tires are tubeless. Michelin is the undisputed leader in tire quality and performance and Michelin Classic TB15 tires are built in the authentic molds. Please note that some of the larger 15 inch Michelin TB sizes are W speed rated.
Blackwall Tire
Since the introduction of carbon black rocked the tire industry, the original recipe for most tires has been a solid black sidewall. For classics and collector cars alike, it's hard to beat the no-nonsense appeal of a classic blackwall style tire. British sports car, classic truck and even hot rod enthusiasts love the way a nice period correct blackwall tire looks on their vehicles.
V Speed Rating
V Speed Rated: Up to 149 mph (240 km/h). Often required OE for higher performance trim level automobiles.
Michelin TB15+
A mixed tire for road use and classic car rallies that is road legal in Europe and North America. Excellent grip on wet roads. The MICHELIN TB15+ is made up of several longitudinal lines for excellent water evacuation. Consistent performance, designed with a tread compound for consistent performance in changing wet conditions.
Michelin Brand Classic Tires
Michelin is known for its high quality tires, and we keep thousands of popular Michelin tires in stock every day. Our Michelin product offerings include fitments from the 1920's all the way into the 2000's, with an intense focus on classic sports cars. Build quality, fitment options and period correct styling makes the Michelin product line a favorite among sports car enthusiasts around the world.
Please Note
- Tire mounted on wheel for demonstration purposes only. Wheel and other accessories are not included. Please note that dimensions listed (tread width, section width and overall diameter) are non-scientific and based on an inflated tire, mounted to a wheel. Dimensions may vary due to rim width and inflation pressure.
| SKU | 71222 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 31.000000 |
| Load Index | 79 |
| Brand | Michelin |
| Radial Aspect Ratio | 55 |
| Tube Type or Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Tire Series | Michelin TB15+ |
| Tire Construction | Radial |
| Rim Diameter | 15 inch |
| Speed Rating | V |
| Tread Compound | Mixte (combination F/R) |
| Width Radial | 215 mm |
| Sidewall Style | Blackwall |
| Product Size | 215/55R15 79V |
| Service Description | 79V |
| Section Width (IN) | 8.58 |
| Rim Width (in) | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| Overall Diameter (IN) | 24.37 |
| Availability Date | 2026-04-20T00:00:00Z |
This Michelin TB 15 comes in the 18/60-15 size, suitable for the classic and collector vehicles listed below.
About the 18/60-15 Tire Size
The 18/60-15 tire size is the size associated with this Michelin TB 15, a bias-ply tire for vehicles that use this specialized fitment. For shoppers viewing this product, the 18/60-15 designation helps connect the tire to vehicle applications organized through the Coker Tire Fitment Guide. For more detailed information on this tire size, explore the 18/60-15 tire on Coker Tire Fitment Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Purchase Considerations â–¼
Yes. The Michelin TB15+ uses radial construction, which can deliver a different steering response and road feel compared with a traditional bias ply tire. Its design is suited to drivers looking for more modern handling characteristics while retaining a classic motorsport appearance.
If preserving the original driving feel is a priority, consider how a switch to radial tires may change the character of your vehicle. The TB15+ is particularly worth considering for classic cars used for road driving and rally events, where its performance-focused design can be an advantage.
The Michelin TB15+ is designed for performance-oriented classic cars and classic rally use, making it a relevant option for drivers who enjoy more spirited road driving. Its intermediate-compound design and tread pattern with longitudinal grooves are intended to provide grip, including on wet roads.
Before choosing it, make sure the 215/55R15 size suits your vehicle and that the tire meets its load and speed requirements. It is best considered for performance-focused use rather than selected solely for its classic styling.
It may suit a modified classic, provided the tire dimensions and ratings are compatible with the vehicle's current setup. Changes to suspension height, wheel dimensions or steering components can affect tire clearance, so the original fitment should not be assumed to remain suitable after modifications.
Check that the 215/55R15 tire fits the intended wheels and has adequate clearance around the fenders, suspension and steering components. If the vehicle has been substantially altered, verify fitment before purchasing.
Yes. The Michelin TB15+ carries a **79 load index**, so confirm that its specified load capacity meets your vehicle manufacturer's requirements, including the loads expected during normal use. Do not assume that a performance tire's speed rating makes it suitable for every vehicle.
This tire has a V speed rating, corresponding to speeds up to 149 mph (240 km/h) under specified conditions. Both the load and speed ratings should be appropriate for your vehicle and intended use before you buy.
Fitment & Compatibility â–¼
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire is a radial design and may serve as a replacement for certain older bias ply performance tire applications when dimensions and clearances are appropriate. Many enthusiasts choose radial replacements to gain improved stability, wet-weather traction, and more predictable highway behavior.
Because radial and bias ply tires behave differently, switching may affect steering feel, ride quality, and cornering response. Vehicles originally designed around bias ply construction sometimes feel noticeably different after conversion. Before replacing a bias ply setup, owners should compare overall tire dimensions and evaluate whether the change aligns with their restoration goals, driving habits, and desired handling characteristics.
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire uses a 215 mm section width and performance-oriented radial construction, both of which contribute to responsive handling characteristics. Compared with narrower vintage tire designs, the contact patch can provide improved grip and directional stability during spirited driving.
The trade-off is that steering effort may increase slightly on vehicles without power steering, particularly at parking-lot speeds. Drivers may also notice more immediate turn-in response than with traditional touring-oriented vintage tires. These characteristics are generally desirable for rally-inspired and performance-focused applications where precision and driver confidence are priorities.
Tire Size Equivalents & Conversions â–¼
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire is generally considered a lower-profile performance tire when compared with many classic touring and restoration-oriented tire sizes. The 55-series sidewall provides a sportier appearance and typically contributes to sharper steering response and reduced sidewall flex during cornering.
For vintage performance cars and rally applications, this profile strikes a balance between handling precision and street usability. Owners accustomed to taller sidewall tires may notice firmer road feedback and more direct steering behavior. These characteristics align well with the tire's intended performance-oriented mission while remaining practical for road use.
Before switching to the Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire, compare wheel diameter, overall tire diameter, section width, and load capacity. These measurements determine whether the new tire will fit correctly and perform as expected on your vehicle.
Buyers should also evaluate wheel width compatibility, suspension clearance, steering lock clearance, and speedometer impact. Simply matching the wheel diameter does not guarantee identical fitment characteristics. Taking a complete dimensional approach helps prevent unexpected changes in ride height, appearance, handling balance, and vehicle functionality after installation.
Performance & Use Case â–¼
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire was developed specifically for enthusiasts who want a tire capable of handling both public-road driving and classic rally use. Michelin describes the TB15+ as a mixed-use tire that combines competition-inspired performance characteristics with road legality in Europe and North America.
This dual-purpose design makes the Michelin TB15+ attractive for vintage sports cars, historic rally participants, and performance-oriented classics that see regular street mileage. Drivers can benefit from wet-weather capability and predictable handling while maintaining a motorsport-inspired appearance. It is a practical choice for owners seeking more performance focus than a typical touring tire without moving to a dedicated racing slick.
Wet-road performance is one of the primary strengths of the Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire. The tread design incorporates multiple longitudinal grooves intended to evacuate water efficiently, helping maintain road contact during rainy conditions and reducing the likelihood of standing-water instability.
For drivers of classic sports cars and rally-inspired vehicles, this can provide greater confidence when weather conditions change unexpectedly. The tread compound was designed to deliver consistent performance in varying wet conditions rather than focusing solely on dry-weather grip. This balanced approach makes the Michelin TB15+ a practical option for enthusiasts who regularly drive their vehicles instead of reserving them strictly for fair-weather events.
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire may exhibit different tracking behavior compared with older tire designs due to its performance-oriented construction and tread pattern. Many drivers notice improved directional stability and more direct steering feedback during highway travel.
Because the tire offers a larger and more capable contact patch than some narrow vintage alternatives, it may respond more noticeably to road surface variations. Proper alignment is important to maximize straight-line stability. Owners transitioning from older bias ply or touring-oriented tires should expect a more connected driving experience that emphasizes precision and road feel.
Construction, Durability & Load Capacity â–¼
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire originates from a product family with strong motorsport roots, yet it was designed to remain practical for road use. Michelin positioned the tire as a solution for enthusiasts seeking competition-inspired performance without sacrificing everyday drivability.
Its tread design, wet-weather capability, radial construction, and road-legal status demonstrate that balance. Rather than functioning as a dedicated race tire, the Michelin TB15+ delivers characteristics that support spirited driving while maintaining usability on public roads. This combination makes it particularly appealing to owners who regularly exercise their classic performance vehicles instead of limiting them to display purposes.
Installation & Maintenance â–¼
The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire generally follows standard installation practices appropriate for high-quality radial tires. Professional mounting and balancing are strongly recommended to help protect both the tire and wheel during the installation process.
Experienced installers should verify wheel condition, valve stem integrity, and proper seating during mounting. Balancing is particularly important because performance-oriented tires are often expected to operate smoothly at highway speeds. Following proper installation procedures helps maximize comfort, stability, and tread life from the beginning of ownership.
Maximizing tread life begins with maintaining correct inflation pressure, proper wheel alignment, and balanced suspension components. These factors help distribute loads evenly across the tread surface and reduce irregular wear patterns.
Drivers should also monitor tire condition regularly and address alignment issues promptly if unusual wear develops. Aggressive driving can accelerate tread wear, particularly on performance-oriented tires. Consistent maintenance allows the Michelin TB15+ to deliver stable performance while helping owners achieve the greatest practical service life from their investment.
Classic vehicles often spend extended periods in storage, making tire care especially important. The Michelin TB15+ 215/55R15 79V Blackwall Tire should be stored away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, ozone-producing equipment, and harsh environmental conditions whenever possible.
If the vehicle will remain stationary for a long time, periodic movement can help minimize flat spotting. Maintaining proper inflation pressure during storage is also beneficial. Good storage practices help preserve tire condition and support consistent performance when the vehicle returns to regular use.
Routine inspections help identify potential issues before they affect performance or safety. Owners should monitor tread wear, sidewall condition, inflation pressure, and any signs of unusual damage or irregular wear patterns throughout the tire's service life.
It is also wise to observe changes in steering feel, vibration levels, or vehicle tracking characteristics. These symptoms can indicate alignment concerns, wheel balance issues, or developing mechanical problems. Regular inspections help ensure the Michelin TB15+ continues to deliver the consistent handling, wet-weather capability, and road-going performance expected from a premium classic performance tire.