Reevu announces availability of their rear view helmet RV-MSX1

Everytime I've complained about a helmet, or had an idea for making it better, it's always centered on something like "more comfortable" or "better ventilation". I think I once had a dream about building one with lights on the back that were linked to your turn signals and stop lights, but I quickly realized that would just look daft. If I'm being sensible, I'd also say "safer" but having never crashed hard in a helmet, I've no idea what that would even mean.

And then along comes Reevu and makes me realize I'm not as smart as I think. Their new helmet manages to do something completely different to everything else in market - it incorporates a rear view system.

What you see inside a Reevu RV MSX1

On first glance, that seems to be extraneous. Most of us were raised on the shoulder check and will habitually squirm in our seats to get a better view of the road behind, but really, how often on the average ride do we do that? It's supposed to be every 6-10 seconds. In reality, it's maybe that many times per hour, isn't it?

The Reevu system works by "bending light" around from the rear of the helmet over the top and into a little window about the viewport from the visor. As you can see from the image above, it's not a huge view, but it's enough to tell you if something is approaching quickly without moving your head.

A closer look at the Reevu RV MSX1

And it seems to do this whilst still building a helmet that looks pretty decent and continues to meet or exceed all safety standards. There's no word on how much weight it adds, but for those of you with racing sensibilities, there's a carbon version. Reevu also claim excellent ventliation due to active venting, but then doesn't everyone?

Reevu RV MSX1 from the side

My initial impression on seeing the technology was "how about rear glare" - you know, heading away from the sunset - would that blind you? Apparently there's a system in place to limit the light so it shouldn't be a problem. I'd also guess carrying a pillion would limit it's usefulness.

These limitations aside, it would seem to be a significant step forward in rider safety and it could also be an excellent tool for trackdays and racing - no more getting blindsided.

Prices start at GBP249 and for now, it seems dealerships are limited to the UK for now.

You can find more information at Reevu