Motorcyclists can breathe a little easier now that the Reevu rear-view motorcycle helmet is set to go into production. A great concept since 2005, the RV MSX1 motorcycle helmet has a built-in rear-view panel to let motorcycle drivers see the road behind them.

The rear-view panel takes in then bends light around the driver’s head using lightweight polycarbonate mirrors, then directs it toward the eye in a small mirror positioned at the top of the rider’s field of vision. You’ll still want to do the turn-the-head-and-check move, but this cool device will give you critical information you might have missed.

The Reevu just passed the all-important European ECE-ONU 22-05 homologation standard, including its extensive safety test, so it will soon be available for European distribution. No word yet on price but check out the video to see how this awesome helmet will work.

Put simply, this system effectively “bends” the light around the shape of the head – all within the moulding of the helmet – to provide a clear view of the road behind. Early prototypes were met with absolute astonishment. It is so stunningly apparent from the first moment a Reevu helmet is worn that it will really make a huge difference to the safety of the wearer on our roads.

Tags: gadget, bike+gadget, motorcycle+gadget, motorcycle+helmet, reevu