Michelin TB 15 | 26/61-15

The Michelin TB15+ 295/40R15 87V can be used on public roads because it is designed as a mixed road and classic rally tire and is road legal in Europe and North America. Its intermediate compound suits drivers who need a tire capable of road transit alongside competitive or spirited driving.

The main consideration is how the vehicle will be used. The TB15+'s low-profile construction, wide 295mm section, and performance-oriented compound provide a different experience from a conventional touring radial. Buyers who primarily value everyday comfort, long tread life, or compatibility with narrow original equipment should carefully compare those priorities before selecting the TB15+.

The Michelin TB15+ 295/40R15 87V is well suited to restored race cars, classic rally cars, and performance-focused builds requiring this type of tire. Michelin builds its Classic TB15 tires in authentic molds, preserving the historic tread pattern and sidewall profile associated with their competition heritage.

However, the TB15+ uses modern radial construction and an intermediate compound, so it will not reproduce the driving characteristics of an original bias ply tire. Buyers prioritizing period-correct specifications should verify their vehicle's historical documentation and intended tire dimensions before choosing it.

The Michelin TB15+ 295/40R15 87V can produce a noticeably different driving character from the narrower, taller, or bias ply tires commonly found on older vehicles. Its radial construction and 40-series profile reduce sidewall flex, while the wide 295mm section supports a more direct response during cornering. Steering inputs can feel more immediate, with more road texture transmitted into the chassis.

These characteristics may be desirable for a competition-oriented or performance-focused build, but they represent a meaningful change from traditional vintage-tire behavior. Buyers should consider whether they want precise, performance-oriented handling or a ride closer to the compliance and steering characteristics of the vehicle's original tire configuration.

The 87 load index represents a maximum load capacity of 545 kilograms per tire, or approximately 1,202 pounds. Buyers should verify that the vehicle's weight and expected occupant load remain within the tire's rated capacity and follow the manufacturer's recommended inflation pressure.

The V speed rating certifies sustained operation at speeds up to 149 mph (240 km/h). Although this provides substantial speed capability for many performance-driving applications, buyers should confirm that the load and speed ratings meet their vehicle manufacturer's requirements and any applicable competition regulations before installation.

The Michelin TB15+ is designed for restored race cars, rally cars, and performance builds requiring tires in the 13- to 15-inch diameter range. Its 295/40R15 size and intermediate compound make it an option for vehicles used for performance events and road transit.

Fitment depends on wheel width and available space around the wheel wells. A 295-section tire is substantial, so clearance should be verified at full suspension compression and through the steering range, rather than assessed only while the vehicle is stationary. Confirm wheel and bodywork clearance before purchasing.

Before ordering, confirm that the vehicle's wheel diameter and width are compatible with the tire and that the available clearance is sufficient. For the 295/40R15 size, the supplied fitment information gives a typical compatible rim-width range of 9.5 to 11.5 inches, with 10.5 inches as the nominal design width.

Also check wheel offset, fender and inner-body clearance, suspension travel, steering lock, and brake-caliper clearance. Compare the tire's overall diameter with the vehicle's existing specification, and verify the required load and speed ratings before installation.

The 295/40R15 designation describes the tire's key dimensions. The 295 indicates a nominal section width of 295 mm, while 40 represents the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 40% of the section width. The R indicates radial construction, and 15 specifies the wheel diameter in inches. The 87V marking indicates a load index of 87 and a V speed rating of up to 149 mph (240 km/h).

Understanding these specifications helps determine whether the tire is suitable for the vehicle's wheel setup, load requirements, and intended use. Always verify compatibility with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations before purchasing.

The Michelin TB15+ 295/40R15 has an approximate overall diameter of 660 mm, or about 26 inches. Compare this measurement with the overall diameter of your current tires and the vehicle manufacturer's recommended specifications.

A difference in overall diameter can affect speedometer accuracy, ground clearance, gearing, and the vehicle's stance. Also verify the tire's section width and compatible rim width, since matching the diameter alone does not guarantee correct fitment.

Wheel width is important because the Michelin TB15+ has a wide 295 mm section and requires a compatible rim width for correct mounting and handling. The supplied fitment information gives a typical compatible rim-width range of 9.5 to 11.5 inches, with 10.5 inches as the nominal design width.

Using a wheel outside the compatible range can distort the tire's profile and contact patch, potentially affecting handling and tread wear. Before ordering, measure the actual rim width and confirm that the wheel, offset, and available vehicle clearance are suitable for this tire.

The Michelin TB15+ is designed for performance-oriented driving, with radial construction, an intermediate compound, and a 40-series aspect ratio that reduce sidewall flex and support a more direct response during cornering. Drivers can expect sharper turn-in and more immediate feedback through the steering compared with many conventional or period bias ply tires.

The actual result depends on the vehicle's suspension, alignment, wheel setup, and available clearance. The wide 295mm section also makes correct wheel fitment important for achieving the intended handling characteristics.

The Michelin TB15+ is intended for classic race cars, rally cars, and performance applications. Its intermediate compound is designed to balance road capability with competitive performance, making it relevant for amateur racers and drivers who use their classics for events as well as road transit.

Before competition use, verify that the tire's V speed rating, dimensions, and specifications meet the applicable event regulations and the vehicle's requirements. Its wide section also means that wheel width and vehicle clearance must be confirmed.

The Michelin TB15+ features longitudinal tread lines designed to evacuate water, and Michelin describes its compound as providing consistent performance in changing wet conditions. Its radial construction and performance-oriented tread make it suitable for road use and classic rally applications.

However, road conditions, tire pressure, tread wear, and driving style all influence grip. The relatively low-profile design also provides less cushioning over significant road imperfections than a taller-profile tire, so drivers should take care on rough surfaces.

The Michelin TB15+ uses radial construction, as indicated by the R in its 295/40R15 size designation. Compared with traditional bias ply tires, radial construction provides a different sidewall-flex and contact-patch behavior, contributing to more direct steering response and consistent handling under load.

For classic vehicles originally fitted with bias ply tires, this can change steering feel, ride quality, and the way the tire interacts with the suspension. The TB15+ is therefore better suited to buyers seeking performance-oriented radial characteristics than those aiming to reproduce the exact driving behavior of original bias ply tires.

The Michelin TB15+ uses an intermediate compound intended to balance road capability with competitive performance, rather than maximize treadwear mileage like a conventional touring tire. As a result, it may wear faster than a touring radial when used regularly on public roads.

For classic cars driven limited distances or mainly for rallies and performance events, this trade-off may be acceptable. Owners should inspect tread depth and tire condition regularly, particularly when the tire is used for spirited driving or competition.

Consider the tire's performance-oriented compound, expected mileage, inflation requirements, and the conditions in which the vehicle will be driven. Regularly inspect tread depth, sidewalls, and the bead area for damage or signs of deterioration, especially after competition or mixed-surface driving.

When the tires are not in use for extended periods, store them in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and ozone-generating equipment. Also check the manufacturing date when purchasing or reinstalling tires, since rubber can deteriorate with age even when tread depth remains adequate.

Verify that the wheel diameter and width are compatible with the tire, and check wheel offset, fender clearance, suspension travel, steering lock, and brake-caliper clearance. The 295/40R15 is a wide, low-profile performance tire, so fitting it to a 15-inch wheel alone does not guarantee compatibility.

The Michelin TB15 Course competition tires are tubeless, but the wheel must also be suitable for tubeless use. Use a qualified tire shop experienced with wide-section performance radials for mounting and balancing, and confirm the correct inflation pressure and load requirements before driving.

Maintain the recommended cold inflation pressure and check it before driving, particularly before performance events. Incorrect pressure can affect the contact patch, accelerate uneven wear, and increase heat buildup. Ensure the vehicle's wheel alignment is appropriate and inspect the tires regularly for uneven tread wear or damage.

The TB15+ uses an intermediate performance compound rather than a touring compound designed for maximum mileage. Avoiding unnecessary aggressive driving and checking tire condition after demanding use can help preserve its usable life, although actual tread life depends on driving style, vehicle setup, and road conditions.

Monitor tread depth, uneven wear across the tread, sidewall cracking, bulges, cuts, and damage around the bead. Uneven shoulder or center wear can indicate incorrect inflation pressure, alignment issues, or an unsuitable wheel setup. After driving on rough or mixed surfaces, inspect the tread for embedded debris and the sidewalls for abrasion.

Also consider tire age, not just remaining tread depth. Rubber can harden and deteriorate over time, so check the manufacturing date and replace tires that show signs of deterioration or are no longer suitable for safe use.

Check cold inflation pressure before each driving session and keep it within the vehicle and tire manufacturer's recommended specifications. Inspect the tread and sidewalls regularly for uneven wear, cracks, cuts, bulges, or other damage. After competition or mixed-surface use, check for embedded debris and signs of heat-related damage.

Store the tires in a cool, dry, dark location away from direct sunlight, heat, and ozone-generating equipment when they are not in use. Monitor their age as well as their tread depth, because rubber condition can deteriorate over time even when the tires have seen limited use.