I like the Pig mirrors for the side vision. If I can see something in them..then I can't pull over to that lane...if I don't see anything..I'm clear to go into the next lane. In reality, I still look. For my Gixxer, even with the stock mirrors I would always be shifting my body left and right to be able to see.
Yes the mirrors are convex. I like them. Plus they give a nice sleek look to the bike.
The MSF course I took in York was excellent. I took the advanced course with my bike. Not easy doing some of the slow turns though on a Gixxer but it was fun. He did mention to always look.