How do yo interpret the tire ratings?
for instance my tires are 215 60r15

What does that mean?

Thanks

 

The 215 is the section width of the tire in millimeters. The 60 is known as the aspect ratio which is a percentage of the section width, also in millimeters. This is the height of the sidewall. The R stands for radial and the 15 is the wheel diameter in inches. The 60 aspect ratio means the sidewall height is 60 percent of 215mm, or about 129mm. As you go to a larger diameter wheel the aspect ratio usually decreases by a factor of 10. Thus, if you go to a 16" wheel with that size you began with, it would be a 215/50 R16. Tire width is determined by the width of the wheel. So, width may vary.