How narrow is too narrow for front tires when you want it to handle?

[Rafs-T-Type]

So, I've been having issues with my 26" tire smacking the wheel well, so I'm in the market for some tires in the 24.4"-25.1" height to help with this issue. Only problem is it turns out it's hard to find a 15" tire in this height with any decent width. I would have to go as narrow as like a 215. How much will that hurt handling vs a 235? Also anyone have a recommendation from this list- http://www.tirerack.com/tires/TireS.../&rearRatio=40&rearDiameter=17&zip-code=60517. Thanks.

 

[Rafs-T-Type]

Or there's 205's too - http://www.tirerack.com/tires/TireS.../&rearRatio=40&rearDiameter=17&zip-code=60517

Also how important is weight index?

 

[dynoman]

I would have to go as narrow as like a 215.

I believe 215-65-15 were stock size .

 

[SS440GP]

I just put M/T SR 8x26x15 on mine, they look great. A 1/2 narrower than the stock 215x65x15 stock tires I took off. Tread is 7", section width is 8.5 on a7" rim , height is 25.5.