Abstract Experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of certain parameters that affect the impact response of the motorcycle front wheel-tire assembly under various impact conditions. Impact tests were conducted according to 2ν5 − 1 fractional factorial design using a pendulum impact test apparatus with impact speed, impact mass, tire inflation pressure level, striker geometry, and impact location as design factors. Significant factors influencing the response of the wheel-tire assembly were identified. Coefficients for each factor were also determined, and empirical models were then developed for each response. An analysis indicates that the developed models fit well within the experimental ranges of the respective factors. However, for several interaction effects, the models become unrealistic, whereby they give certain deformation values when approaching zero impact mass and/or zero impact velocity. This is not consistent with the mechanics of the physical world, as there should not be any significant deformation when delivered impact energy is small enough. Efforts have been made in developing better models to resolve the inconsistency and to include a wider range, especially considering the case of the lower limit of experimental factors, which are an impact mass of 51.18 kg and/or an impact velocity of 3 m $ s^{−1} $ (10.8 km/h) down to zero. The minimum amount of impact energy required to produce the onset of observable deformation on the wheel was incorporated in the development of new models. Finally, the present models have been developed not only to cover the lower regions but also to range up to the upper limits of the factors, which are an impact mass of 101.33 kg and an impact velocity of 6 m $ s^{−1} $ (21.6 km/h).