In this review, we’ll take a look at the powerful and intriguing Acer Predator Advance electric scooter. It features a 500W motor, a range of up to 60 km, suspension, and connectivity to a mobile app. Our editor tested this model for a month, and you know what? She didn’t want to give it back!
Ціна та позиціонування
In 2022, Acer introduced its first electric scooter, the Acer ES (Electric Scooter) Series 1. The debut of such a device from a “computer” brand was unexpected, but the company quickly found its place in the electric transport segment. The models turned out to be quite successful in terms of both design and capabilities. As a result, the first generation soon gave way to more powerful successors—the ES Series 3 and ES Series 5. The higher-end versions come with increased power and various additional features.
This year, Acer also launched scooters under the Predator sub-brand—the Acer Predator Advance and Acer Predator Extreme. The latter stands out with its “aggressive” design and power of up to 960 W. You might wonder why so much power is needed if speed is limited by regulations. Well, it’s perfect for activities like active recreation and sports. A powerful scooter like this will charge uphill like crazy, even with a heavier rider, and it’s great for off-road adventures too.
The main focus of this review is also a powerful scooter with a 500 W motor, essentially a twin of the Acer ES Series 5 Advance. It’s nearly identical, just without the “Predator” branding. However, Acer’s gaming series has a significant fan base, so releasing special models under this brand was a smart move.
The Acer Predator Advance is a typical urban scooter that can handle any road, and thanks to its suspension, you’ll barely feel the discomfort of uneven cobblestones and other rough city terrains. It’s perfect for long rides, offering a range of up to 60 km and a cruise control feature. While it can manage off-road or rugged terrain, the experience isn’t as enjoyable, and it’s a shame to wear out the scooter on such tasks—this is where the Extreme version would be a better fit.
It’s worth noting that Acer also manufactures electric scooters and bikes, and they’re doing exceptionally well in that market!
The star of this review, the Acer Predator Advance, is priced at around $645 in European markets. This is a fair price considering its power, features, and the reputation of the manufacturer.
Let’s take a closer look at this scooter and find out why it’s worth your attention.
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Technical specifications of the Acer Predator Advance
- Model: PES025
- Type: city scooter
- Maximum range on a single charge: 60 km
- Power consumption: 500 W
- Drive system: rear wheel
- Maximum speed: 30 km/h (20 km/h limit)
- Driving modes: eco (up to 6 km/h), rest (up to 10 km/h), sport (up to 20 km/h)
- Maximum load capacity: 120 kg
- Handlebar height 120 cm
- Wheels: 10″, polyurethane foam tires, tubeless
- Ground clearance: 11 cm
- Shock absorption: yes
- Folding mechanism: yes, folding footrest, quick folding and unfolding system
- Brake system: front electric brakes, rear disc brakes
- Battery: lithium-ion 16000 mAh, charge: 42 V / 3.0 A, full charge time 5-6 hours
- Main material: aluminum alloy
- Features: Suspension, front and rear lights, reflectors, turn signals, sound signal (bell), LED display, can ride on inclines up to 22%
- Dimensions: Unfolded – 111×49×126 cm, Folded – 111×49×55 cm
- Dust and Water Resistance: IPX5
- Software: Proprietary eMobility app, connects to the scooter via Bluetooth
- Weight: 18.1 kg.
Package contents
In the large box, you’ll find the assembled scooter, a hex key, four M5 14 mm screws, an instruction manual, and a charger similar to those used for laptops. The new scooter comes with the top part of the handlebar detached, which needs to be screwed on, but it’s a simple process.
Exterior: elements on the steering wheel, platform, folding, wheels
The scooter looks great with a classic design. It’s made from matte black aluminum alloy.
As I mentioned, the Predator Advance looks similar to other models in the Acer e-scooter series, but there is a Predator logo on the platform, or rather, two – one on the top and one on the side. From a distance, you can see that this is a model that belongs to the Acer “gaming” series.
In addition, the design of the scooter is complemented by reflective stripes on the wheels and a vertical insert on the steering column. This evokes the gaming electronics, which often shimmers with the entire RGB palette.
The handlebars feature a bell (the standard kind found on bicycles), a brake lever, turn signal switch, and an accelerator throttle (or, more simply, an accelerator grip).
There is also a color segmented LED display that shows
- current speed mode
- current speed
- battery level (one dash indicates approximately 20%)
- Bluetooth indicator
- headlights/tail lights on indicator
- Cruise control indicator.
The screen fades under direct sunlight but remains relatively readable.
There is a light (headlight) on the front of the handlebars that shines brightly, illuminating several meters ahead. At the rear, on the mudguard, there is a red marker light that comes on when the headlight is on.
I should add that the scooter also features reflective elements— a large one at the front and smaller ones on both sides of each wheel (in addition to the colored stripes on the wheels and the handlebar stem).
The rear ones also serve as turn signals – the button to activate them is located on the left side of the steering wheel.
A useful addition is the large metal hook on the rear of the handlebars. If you find yourself at a potato sale at ATB, you could use it to carry your haul home—though, of course, the scooter is rated for a maximum load of 120 kg… Just kidding! In reality, the hook is intended for securing the scooter in the folded position, though it could also be handy for carrying ads (though that’s not its primary purpose).
On the right side of the handlebars, there are two buttons—the upper button turns on the lights, while the lower button powers the scooter on and off and allows you to switch between riding modes.
The shape and material of the handlebars ensure a secure and comfortable grip, so even during long rides on uneven surfaces, your hands won’t get tired. Overall, the ergonomics of the handlebars are excellent, with attention to detail. Although the height is not adjustable (120 cm), it is comfortable for any user.
The Acer Predator Advance platform is also comfortable—long and wide, with a non-slip rubber surface. A person with large feet will have no issues. Riding with two people is possible, but it’s important to note that it is not safe and does not comply with regulations.
The Acer Predator Advance scooter has a handlebar folding mechanism. Folding and unfolding is easy, without the risk of pinching your fingers. How do I fold the scooter?
- Press the chrome safety button before releasing it
- Unlock the folding lever (pull towards you) – the tube will release
- Fold the tube and attach the locking hook to the mounting plate on the rear mudguard (there is a special “loop” for this).
To unfold the scooter, you need to:
- Press the hook retaining plate to release the hook
- Lift up the front tube
- Lock the folding lever in place.
Thanks to this design, the model can be conveniently folded and unfolded in seconds!
However, there is one issue—the weight. The Acer Predator Advance weighs 18 kg. Yes, the model has a sturdy metal frame, a powerful motor, and a very large battery—all of which contribute to the increased weight. Nonetheless, it’s still too heavy to carry over long distances.
Personally, I’m not afraid of the weight since I work out at the gym. But squatting with a barbell is one thing, and hauling an 18 kg scooter is another. I can’t manage it with one hand, and with both hands, it’s simply inconvenient and can lead to bruises on your legs. In practice, I can only manage to get the Predator Advance into a bus or train, or push it a few meters. Carrying the scooter over greater distances is only feasible for very strong individuals. Even lifting the scooter onto a high curb can be a challenging task for a petite woman.
So, the folding feature is useful, but in my opinion, it’s more for reducing the scooter’s footprint when storing it in an apartment or transporting it.
The platform is equipped with a very sturdy metal kickstand, which folds away. It is positioned at the center of gravity, preventing the vehicle from tipping over accidentally.
The platform and the tube feature an ergonomic design and lack sharp edges that could theoretically injure your legs during sudden braking or a potential fall.
The scooter boasts excellent build quality. I received a model that had been tested by other editors, but I can’t say it feels “wobbly” or that anything rattles, even when riding over uneven surfaces. Everything is in great shape. Overall, the model is assembled neatly, without any protruding wires or other defects.
Additionally, the Acer Predator Advance electric scooter is water-resistant with an IPX5 rating. This means it can handle splashes from puddles and rain. However, it’s best to avoid intentionally riding through deep water. The manual also advises against riding in the rain.
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Wheels, suspension, brakes
The scooter features large 10-inch wheels with polyurethane tires that are tubeless—a significant advantage as you don’t have to worry about punctures. The wheel guards are made of durable plastic.
The rear wheel is equipped with suspension, which means riding over uneven asphalt or mounting low curbs is not a problem. Compared to scooters without suspension, the difference is substantial—your knees and hand joints will appreciate it. While the suspension doesn’t eliminate all vibrations completely, it definitely enhances ride comfort.
The Acer Predator Advance is rear-wheel drive, so its “disk” is enclosed. The system also includes an electronic brake, while the front wheel is equipped with a disc brake.
Acer Predator Advance features and driving experience
In this part of the review, we will cover the following parameters: range, motor power, speed and riding modes, drive system, ground clearance, braking system, and maximum load.
I assume our readers are familiar with how to use an electric scooter, so I won’t go into detail. In brief: turn on the Predator Advance by holding down the power button, press the “Start” button, and push off with your foot—then the electric motor will begin to operate.
The scooter starts smoothly and effortlessly; you don’t need to push off like with some cheaper models. It accelerates well, although performance depends on the riding mode, which I will discuss below.
Speed is controlled by the throttle. The manual brake operates flawlessly—it’s precise and effective. The only point emphasized in the instructions is not to apply too much pressure on the brake lever, as sudden braking with the front wheel could lead to a fall. Additionally, the handlebars allow you to navigate even the tightest turns with ease.
Overall, the scooter handles excellently and provides a pleasant ride. You feel like you’re using high-quality equipment that you can trust.
Distance on a single charge
The Acer Predator Advance has an impressive range of 60 km on a single charge. The manual states that this range was tested “with a load of 75 kg, at temperatures between 25-30°C, at a speed of 10 km/h on a smooth concrete road at medium speed without stops.”
From experience, the actual range depends on factors such as the user’s weight, road conditions (surface type, incline), driving mode, and speed. Therefore, it’s hard to predict exactly how long the scooter will last in your specific case. However, based on my experience, the stated 60 km is a realistic estimate.
For example, my weight is 61 kg, which is slightly less than the manufacturer’s test load. When riding on a flat road at an average speed of around 15 km/h, a single charge lasted about 60 km (on average, around 4-6 hours of riding). If I rode faster, including on cobblestone and often uphill, the range reduced to 45-50 km, which is still quite good.
To test the scooter, I lent it to a friend who weighs about 110 kg. I want to remind you that the maximum load capacity of the Acer Predator Advance is 120 kg. My friend was genuinely pleased and now wants to buy the same model for himself. He claims that even with his weight, the scooter starts effectively, climbs gentle hills without issues, and has an average range of around 40 km, which is still a decent result.
I tested the scooter at a minimal battery level when the app indicated a range of 7 km. As the battery level decreases, the scooter’s speed also decreases. I managed to travel those 7 km and even a bit more, but initially, the speed was 12-13 km/h and dropped to 6 km/h towards the end. So, when there’s only one bar of battery remaining on the screen and you need to travel for a longer period, it’s best to charge the scooter before heading out.
Engine power
The Acer Predator Advance is equipped with a 500 W electric motor. As mentioned earlier, the device accelerates quickly and maintains speed effectively. The motor provides ample power for the scooter to go faster, but the speed is limited. This is particularly noticeable when climbing various hills..
In my case, the scooter often doesn’t even slow down and climbs at a maximum speed of 20 km/h on small hills with a gradient of around 20-25%. A gradient of 30° or more also won’t be a major issue for the model. It will slow down, but it will still climb. However, my “big” friend, who weighs 110 kg, had to get off the scooter on such steep hills. On smaller inclines, though, the scooter managed without complaints! A few examples (although photos may not always capture the reality well):
I’d also like to add that during testing, I rode the scooter not only on asphalt and cobblestone but also out of town and in the woods. Although it’s not a true off-road model, it performs very well in “rural” conditions. It doesn’t get stuck in mud, sand, or dry leaves and easily handles bumps and hills.
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Speed and driving modes
The scooter’s maximum speed is 30 km/h, but in most European countries, there is a limit of 20 or 25 km/h. It’s worth noting that the testing was conducted in Poland, so it is limited to 20 km/h according to Polish regulations.
Personally, I have no complaints. I believe that 20 km/h is a sufficient speed for city travel—it’s neither too fast nor too slow. Safety should be our top priority, both for ourselves and for others around us. Speed limits are not set without reason. Of course, there are Chinese scooter models without such restrictions, but using them can be associated with health risks.
Now let’s move on to the Acer Predator Advance riding modes – this is where it gets interesting.
The scooter offers four basic riding modes:
- Low speed (eco mode, up to 6 km/h). Truly “eco”! When I rode 3 km in this mode for testing, the estimated range in the app didn’t change at all. This means that at such a speed, the battery drains very slowly. However, traveling at 6 km/h is not very practical, as it’s pedestrian speed. It’s too slow and boring; this mode seems more suitable for small children—who definitely won’t trip and can be easily caught up with if needed.
- Medium speed (up to 10 km/h). In this mode, the scooter moves faster than walking but is still very energy-efficient. The manufacturer tests the range in this mode, so if you weigh around 75 kg and ride on smooth asphalt, you can cover up to 60 km. If you weigh less, the range might be even greater, as my tests showed. This mode is also useful in cities without bike lanes to avoid bothering pedestrians—you won’t accidentally reach a high speed.
- High speed (up to 20 km/h). This is the primary mode I used during the tests. As I mentioned, a speed of 20 km/h is quite sufficient for city riding. Of course, the Acer Predator Advance can go faster, but the speed of electric scooters is legally restricted in every country.
- Sport mode. Also limited to 20 km/h. However, this mode is quite different from the previous one! It feels like going from a Fiat to a Lamborghini. The scooter accelerates more briskly and reaches speed faster. It also handles inclines better, losing almost no speed. The battery drains faster in this mode, but the range is still quite ample, so it’s not a major issue.
Another important difference is that in “High Speed” mode, the scooter will never exceed 20 km/h, even when going downhill, as it will gently brake. In Sport mode, there is no such limitation, so you can descend hills at higher speeds. Thanks to the scooter’s weight and excellent torque, you can really pick up speed—I’ve reached 40 km/h once!
In this mode, it’s also convenient to handle “potholes” where you first need to descend and then climb up. The scooter’s momentum is sufficient to easily ascend the hill without losing maximum speed. For example, here:
You can switch between riding modes by double-pressing the power button on the scooter (the device will emit a sound signal). The corresponding indicators on the screen at the top will change. Modes can also be switched in the mobile app, which I’ll describe later.
Be careful when pressing the buttons, as triple-pressing changes the units of measurement from kilometers to miles.
Cruise control
Higher-end Acer scooter models feature an advanced cruise control function. This means the device can maintain a set speed without you having to constantly press the throttle. The function activates automatically after a few seconds of maintaining a constant speed. This applies not only to maximum speed—if you lightly press the throttle and maintain a steady speed, the scooter will “remember” that speed and keep it.
When cruise control is activated, the scooter emits a sound signal, and a speedometer icon appears on the screen.
To “reset” the cruise control, simply press the throttle or, if you prefer, the brake again. This feature is especially useful for long distances on bike paths where you don’t need to brake, but just maintain a constant speed. It helps avoid finger fatigue from constantly holding the throttle.
Cruise control is a feature that takes some time to get used to. Having never ridden a scooter with this system before, I was initially surprised by how it worked in urban settings. For example, while riding on a bike path at a steady, low speed, I noticed a pedestrian on the road, so I released the throttle, expecting the scooter to slow down immediately out of habit. However, it continued at the same speed. Another instance was when climbing a steep hill; the scooter slowed down, and when I reached the top and released the throttle to prevent acceleration, the scooter kept speeding up because the hill was no longer a factor.
These aren’t drawbacks but rather features of how cruise control operates. After riding the Acer Predator Advance for a few days, I began to understand when the function kicks in and that in certain situations, you just need to tap the throttle again to turn it off. However, it’s important to be cautious at first.
Additionally, you can completely disable the cruise control feature in the app, which can be useful if you plan to let an inexperienced teenager use the scooter.
During long rides, cruise control proves to be a truly excellent feature. I appreciated that you can “set” not just the maximum speed but any other speed that you find comfortable.
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App for Phone and Locking Acer Predator Advance
The Acer Predator Advance can be paired with an app on your phone via Bluetooth. It’s worth noting that while the ES Series 5 model we tested earlier uses the app of the same name, the Predator Advance connects to Acer’s eMobility program, which also supports the brand’s bikes.
I had no issues with the connection—I turned on the scooter using the power button, opened the app, logged in, selected “Add New Device,” waited for eMobility to find the Predator, and confirmed the connection.
The app is very straightforward. On the main screen, you see an image of your scooter and the battery level displayed in a large circle, with the estimated remaining charge below it. The black circle is the lock icon, which I’ll explain later.
Below the screen, there are three large buttons: for turning on the lights, adjusting scooter settings, and powering the scooter on/off.
In the settings section, you can select the speed mode, turn the cruise control on or off, and configure the side lights to either stay on continuously or only at low speeds. You can also set the time after which the Acer Predator Advance will automatically turn off.
At the bottom of the app is a “Navigation Panel” that you can pull up. In my opinion, this screen is designed with cyclists in mind and is useful when your phone is mounted on the handlebars. It allows you to check the time, speed, battery level, and distance traveled. Additionally, there is a tab for viewing the map.
Now let’s talk about the scooter’s locking function via the app. This is an important feature for those who want to prevent their scooter from being stolen (which is everyone!). Since the device is rear-wheel drive and has an electronic brake, the app allows you to lock the rear wheel. However, it’s not locked “forever”; it periodically releases and re-locks only when you attempt to operate the scooter. The front wheel remains completely “free,” which means that while the rear wheel will resist, you can still push the scooter (and you can even carry it with two people running!). This is why I wouldn’t rely solely on the app’s locking feature in public places. It’s better to invest in a reliable lock and secure the scooter when necessary. Additionally, you can take it with you, but keep in mind the considerable weight.
Interestingly, the Acer Electric Scooter Series 5 app offers a location tracking option for the scooter (the device emits a sound), whereas the eMobility app does not. However, given that the 18-kilogram scooter is hardly similar to a headset that could get lost in couch cushions, this feature might not be as critical.
Charging
The Acer Predator Advance is equipped with a 16,000 mAh lithium-ion battery, providing impressive performance. The included power adapter has a rated voltage of 42 V / 3.0 A. A full charge from 5% to 100% takes almost 6 hours, while reaching 50% charge requires about 3 hours. As you can see, the charging process is smooth and steady, without any “jumps.” Once the scooter is fully charged, the indicator on the charger changes from red to green.
Charging for an hour increases the battery level by just under 20%, which corresponds to about 12 km of travel. However, it’s advisable not to head out with the battery level below 10%—as I mentioned earlier, the scooter will not maintain high speeds under such conditions.
The manufacturer recommends not keeping the battery on charge for more than 24 hours to extend its lifespan. Also, avoid storing the battery at temperatures above 45°C or below -10°C—so don’t leave the scooter in the trunk of your car during summer or in a regular garage during winter. Prevent the battery from fully discharging and charge it in advance. If the scooter won’t be used for more than 30 days, charge it and store it in a cool, dry place, recharging it fully every 60 days.
Conclusions
I really liked this scooter and found it hard to part with. It’s a fantastic device for daily city commutes, trips to work, or leisurely rides along scenic bike paths by the river or lake.
The Acer Predator Advance can be considered a “road” scooter, akin to road bikes. It’s extremely comfortable for long journeys thanks to its wide deck, ergonomic handlebars, excellent suspension, and cruise control that eliminates the need to constantly press the accelerator. With an impressive range of over 60 km and power that allows it to climb hills without losing speed, it’s very comfortable to ride.
The scooter stands out for its solid build quality—it’s clear that this is a piece of equipment designed to last. The high output power (500 W) is noticeable, even with the speed limits. The sport mode turns the scooter into a real “beast”—it accelerates brilliantly and handles steep hills and uneven roads with ease.
The only downside I noticed is its relatively heavy weight (18 kg). However, it’s a reliable device, not a flimsy one that rattles and clatters over every bump. It also comes with a large battery, though heavy, which provides an impressive range. Therefore, I recommend the Acer Predator Advance and believe that the price of this gadget is quite justified.
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