The 23/62-15 tire is a specialty bias-ply size associated with drag racing, competition, and other purpose-built applications using 15-inch wheels. Its format belongs to the vintage numeric racing world, where buyers are usually balancing period appearance, track-style proportions, and the realities of modern wheel and chassis setups. This size matters most for specialty builds that need the visual character and intended use profile of an older competition-style tire format rather than a typical passenger-car replacement size. Before choosing one, verify your wheel width compatibility (8.50 to 10.50 inches), overall clearance, and the exact load and construction requirements of the tire and wheel combination being used.
In 23/62-15, Michelin offers 4 products in this size. Buyers should compare construction type, sidewall style, and load rating with their vehicle or competition setup before choosing a tire.
The 23/62-15 measures 23.0 inches in section width and fits a 15.0-inch wheel, with products in this size using rim widths from 8.50 to 10.50 inches.
Section Width: 23.0 in (584.2 mm) — This is the dimension to check first against fender lips, suspension components, and brake clearance.
Rim Diameter: 15.0 in (381.0 mm) — This must match exactly — 23/62-15 cannot be mounted on any other rim diameter regardless of how other dimensions compare.
Rim Width: 8.50–10.50 in — A wheel that is too narrow causes the sidewall to bulge inward; one that is too wide splays the tire flat and distorts the profile.
Construction: Bias Ply — Construction type affects ride feel, sidewall flex, handling behavior, and period-correctness for restoration.
Tire Weight: 30–31 lb — Heavier construction reflects a denser carcass and increases unsprung weight on the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about 23/62-15 tire sizing, fitment, compatibility, performance, maintenance, and replacement options.
Size Basics & Dimensions
What does 23/62-15 mean?
The 23/62-15 is a numeric specialty tire size that uses more than one nominal width figure and a 15-inch rim diameter. In this format, the final number identifies the wheel diameter, while the numbers ahead of it belong to an older racing-style sizing convention rather than a modern P-metric code.
Unlike a modern passenger size, the 23/62-15 does not directly spell out construction type, section width in millimeters, and aspect ratio in the same standardized way. Buyers should read it as a specialty competition-style code first, then confirm the actual tire's construction, wheel-width range, and physical dimensions before installation. That is especially important when comparing this size to newer radial-based products built for similar wheel diameters but different handling or clearance goals.
What size wheel does the 23/62-15 tire fit?
The 23/62-15 fits a 15.0-inch wheel, which equals 381.0 millimeters at the bead seat. That wheel diameter must match exactly, because tire beads are engineered for one specific rim diameter and cannot safely mount to a different one.
Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture. Products in 23/62-15 use wheel widths from 8.50 to 10.50 inches, so buyers should confirm that the wheel falls within that range and that the tire's profile still clears the body, suspension, and brake package. On a specialty or racing-style application, even a correct 15-inch diameter can still create problems if the wheel is too narrow, too wide, or paired with a different construction than the chassis setup expects.
How wide is the 23/62-15 tire?
The 23/62-15 is listed at 23.0 inches in section width, which is approximately 584.2 millimeters. That figure describes the tire's widest inflated sidewall-to-sidewall measurement rather than the tread surface that actually contacts the road.
Section width is the number to compare against fender lips, inner wheelhouses, suspension links, and brake clearances. Tread width is usually narrower, so using tread width alone can lead to clearance surprises. On a specialty size like the 23/62-15, buyers should also account for wheel width, sidewall shape, and construction differences, because two tires wearing the same size code may not sit exactly the same on the car or race chassis once mounted and inflated.
Is 23/62-15 the same as 23 62 15?
Yes, 23/62-15 and 23 62 15 are alternate written forms of the same size. The spacing and separator style change, but the size intent remains the same as long as the full code is otherwise identical.
Older specialty and racing sizes are often written with slashes, dashes, or spaces depending on the catalog, manufacturer, or buyer habit. What matters is matching the complete size designation and then verifying the actual tire specifications behind it, including wheel diameter, wheel-width range, and construction. When comparing options, it is wise to read the full sidewall markings and the tire's dimensional details instead of assuming that formatting differences automatically indicate a different tire.
Does the 23/62-15 tire need a tube?
The 23/62-15 is commonly a tube-type fitment, especially in older specialty-size contexts. Tube use is not decided by size alone, though, so the actual requirement should be confirmed against the exact tire, wheel, and manufacturer guidance being used.
Wheel design plays a major role in whether a tube is appropriate. Rim condition, bead profile, and the intended use of the vehicle or competition setup all affect the final answer. On an older wheel or a race-oriented application, buyers should inspect the wheel carefully and confirm compatibility before mounting. Treat the size code as a clue, not a final rule, because the tire-and-wheel system determines whether a tube should be part of the installation.
How much does the 23/62-15 tire weigh?
Products in the 23/62-15 size weigh about 30 to 31 pounds per tire. That figure refers to the tire by itself without the wheel, so the complete mounted assembly will weigh more once the wheel, valve hardware, and any tube or balancing materials are included.
Tire weight matters because it affects unsprung mass and can influence how quickly the suspension reacts. On a specialty or competition-oriented setup, even a small weight difference can matter when a buyer is trying to balance steering response, launch behavior, and wheel-and-tire package consistency. Compare weight alongside construction, wheel-width requirements, and overall dimensions rather than using shipping weight alone to decide whether one 23/62-15 option is the better fit.
Tire Compatibility & Fitment
What kinds of vehicles or builds use the 23/62-15 tire?
The 23/62-15 is associated with drag racing, competition, and other specialty applications rather than everyday passenger-car replacement use. Its size format belongs to a purpose-built part of the market where wheel fit, chassis clearance, and intended use matter more than broad vehicle compatibility.
Buyers should approach the 23/62-15 as a specialty fitment starting point, not as a universal answer for any car with 15-inch wheels. The right match depends on wheel width, body and suspension clearance, and the behavior expected from the finished setup. If the goal includes a vintage racing appearance, this size can make sense visually, but the final decision still needs to account for the exact tire construction and how the vehicle will actually be used.
What wheel width works with the 23/62-15 tire?
Products in the 23/62-15 size use wheel widths from 8.50 to 10.50 inches. Staying within that range helps the tire seat properly and keeps its section shape closer to what the tire was designed to deliver.
A wheel near the narrow end of the range can round the sidewall more, while a wheel near the wide end can flatten the profile and subtly change the way the tire sits in the opening. Buyers should also measure available space at the inside sidewall, outer fender edge, and suspension pickup points. On specialty applications, a technically mountable wheel can still create unwanted stance or clearance issues if the rest of the combination is not checked carefully.
Is the 23/62-15 a good choice for a period-style racing build?
The 23/62-15 can suit a period-style racing or specialty build because its format comes from the vintage numeric competition world. Bias-ply construction is often more appropriate when a project is aiming for an older look and driving character rather than purely modern road manners.
Authenticity is only one part of the decision. Builders should still compare the tire's actual construction, wheel-width requirements, and physical footprint against the chassis and intended use. A car being judged on original appearance may call for different details than a car built to be driven more aggressively or more often. Matching the visual era, wheel package, and practical clearance needs will lead to a better result than choosing by size code alone.
Performance & Driving Experience
How does the 23/62-15 tire typically feel on the road?
The 23/62-15 belongs to a specialty competition-style size category, so its road feel depends heavily on the actual tire construction and the setup it is mounted on. A tire in this size may deliver a very different steering and ride impression than an ordinary passenger-car tire because wheel width, compound, and chassis tuning tend to be more specialized.
Construction choice matters here because products sold in this size can differ from the older bias-ply tradition associated with the format. Suspension condition, alignment, vehicle weight, and tire age will all influence how stable or responsive the combination feels. Buyers expecting normal commuter behavior from a specialty size should take a cautious approach and evaluate the full tire-and-wheel package, not just the sidewall code.
How can wheel width change the way the 23/62-15 performs?
Wheel width has a major effect on how the 23/62-15 behaves because this size is used on rims from 8.50 to 10.50 inches wide. A narrower wheel within that range can hold a rounder profile, while a wider wheel tends to spread the casing flatter.
Profile shape changes can influence steering response, sidewall movement, and how the tire fills the wheel opening. On a specialty or race-oriented setup, those differences may also affect how the car reacts under launch, braking, or turn-in. Buyers should compare current wheel width with the target use of the vehicle and avoid assuming that every tire in the size will feel identical once mounted on different wheels.
Is the 23/62-15 tire suited to modern driving conditions?
The 23/62-15 should be treated as a specialty-size tire first, not as a universal modern replacement size. Whether it works well in current driving conditions depends on the actual tire construction, the condition of the suspension and steering system, the weight being carried, and how the vehicle is used.
Drivers planning regular street use should pay close attention to speed-rating markings, load requirements, and overall condition before relying on any specialty-size tire for longer trips. A well-matched setup can feel very different from a mismatched one, even when the sidewall size looks correct. Inspect the whole combination carefully and consider how much of the vehicle's use will be competition-oriented versus ordinary road mileage.
Tire Brands & Quality
What brands are available in the 23/62-15 tire size?
Michelin is available in the 23/62-15 size. The products in this size also share a blackwall appearance and are aimed at performance and racing use rather than general passenger-car replacement duty.
Brand name is only one part of the decision. Buyers should compare the actual construction, wheel-width range, speed-rating markings, and overall dimensions that matter to the intended setup. On a specialty size, consistency across the full set can matter as much as brand choice itself, especially when the goal is predictable handling, a uniform stance, or a matched period-inspired appearance.
What should buyers look for when choosing a 23/62-15 tire for quality?
Quality in the 23/62-15 size starts with construction accuracy, dimensional consistency, and suitability for the intended use. A good choice is one that matches the wheel width, physical clearance, and performance expectations of the build rather than simply sharing the same sidewall code.
Buyers should also compare speed-rating markings, tire weight, and the type of driving the vehicle will actually see. On a specialty size, one version may be better suited to a competition-focused setup while another may better support a mixed-use build. Looking at the complete tire specification helps avoid a mismatch between appearance, behavior, and fitment, which is especially important on a narrow-use size like the 23/62-15.
Should all four 23/62-15 tires match exactly on the same vehicle?
For most builds, keeping all four 23/62-15 tires matched in construction, dimensions, and general design is the safer and more predictable approach. Mixing different carcass types or noticeably different profiles can change steering feel, balance, and the way the vehicle responds under load.
Specialty and competition vehicles sometimes use intentional front-to-rear differences, but those choices should be made with a clear understanding of how the chassis is set up. Even then, buyers should keep side-to-side pairs consistent and confirm that wheel width and clearance remain correct at each end of the vehicle. A matched set usually simplifies tuning, appearance, and long-term service decisions.
Maintenance & Longevity
How should the 23/62-15 tire be inspected over time?
The 23/62-15 should be inspected regularly for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and air loss. Because this is a specialty-size tire, buyers should also watch for signs that the wheel width, alignment, or suspension setup is stressing the casing in ways a normal tread check might miss.
Inspection matters even more when the vehicle sees hard launches, spirited use, or extended storage between outings. Look closely at the sidewalls, bead area, and the tread surface before events or longer drives. If the tire shows age-related deterioration or any structural concern, a qualified tire professional should evaluate it before continued use. Tread depth alone does not tell the whole story on an older or lightly used specialty tire.
How long can the 23/62-15 tire last if the vehicle is not driven much?
A lightly used 23/62-15 can still age out before the tread wears down. Time, heat, sunlight, ozone exposure, and long periods of sitting can harden the rubber and weaken the casing even when the tire still looks serviceable from a distance.
Collector and specialty vehicles benefit from storage away from direct sun, electric motors, moisture, and large temperature swings. Moving the vehicle occasionally and maintaining proper inflation can also help reduce flat spotting during storage. Owners should base replacement decisions on condition and age as well as tread wear, especially when the car or race vehicle is used only seasonally.
How should buyers handle tube questions with the 23/62-15 tire?
The 23/62-15 is commonly a tube-type fitment, but tube use should always be confirmed from the exact tire, wheel, and manufacturer guidance. Size alone does not settle the question, because the wheel design and the intended use of the assembly are part of the final answer.
Older wheels, specialty rims, and race-oriented combinations can each change the recommendation. Buyers should inspect the wheel's bead area, confirm valve setup, and make sure the chosen tire is being mounted in the way its maker intends. When there is any doubt, treating tube fitment as a wheel-and-tire-system decision will prevent a lot of avoidable mounting and service problems later.
Safety & Regulations
When should the 23/62-15 tire be replaced for safety reasons?
The 23/62-15 should be replaced when it shows cracking, bulges, cuts, repeated air loss, impact damage, or age-related hardening, even if the tread still appears usable. Specialty tires can spend long periods with low mileage, so condition often matters more than wear alone.
Before any longer drive or event, inspect the full tire carefully and pay attention to changes in ride feel, vibration, or visible casing distortion. A specialty-size tire that looks acceptable at a glance may still be unsuitable for continued road use if age or storage conditions have compromised the rubber. When in doubt, a qualified tire professional should inspect the tire before it is put back into service.
Are all 23/62-15 tires legal for street use?
Street legality should not be assumed from the 23/62-15 size code alone. Buyers need to review the actual sidewall markings on the specific tire they intend to use and compare them with local requirements and the intended use of the vehicle.
Specialty and competition-oriented sizes can serve very different purposes even when they share the same nominal dimensions. Current markings, construction type, and how the vehicle will be driven all matter more than the code itself. Before relying on a 23/62-15 for public-road use, confirm that the exact tire and wheel combination is appropriate for the application and inspect its condition carefully.
What should buyers verify before taking the 23/62-15 tire on a long trip or event?
Before using the 23/62-15 on a longer drive or event, buyers should confirm wheel diameter, wheel width, tire condition, and any tube requirement tied to the actual wheel-and-tire combination. Speed-rating markings should also be reviewed because H, V, and W examples appear in this size.
Longer use places more demand on an older or specialty tire package than short local runs do. Check for uneven wear, sidewall damage, bead-area issues, and any signs that clearance is too tight once the suspension is loaded. It also helps to confirm that all four tires are matched appropriately for the setup. A careful pre-trip inspection is one of the best ways to avoid problems with a specialty fitment.