What are the pros and cons of Napoleon mirrors? Reviews and highly-rated Napoleon mirrors introduced!

What are the pros and cons of Napoleon mirrors?

https://pixabay.com/

TANAX (Tanax) Napoleon mirrors have long been popular as replacement mirrors for many people.
What is the reason why Napoleon mirrors, also known as "Napomira," have been supported for so long?
Also, as the saying goes, "nothing is perfect," Napoleon mirrors must have both pros and cons, so knowing both will help prevent buyer's remorse.
We will introduce the pros and cons of Napoleon mirrors based on reviews from actual users.

Pro 1: Easy to check behind

Among users of TANAX (Tanax) Napoleon mirrors (Napomira), there are reviews such as "It's easy to check behind, it's quite good." The reason why it's easy to check behind is that Napoleon mirrors use lenses such as "Ray Save mirrors," "Blue mirrors," and "White mirrors."

For example, "Ray Save mirrors" are uniquely developed "wavelength-sensitive anti-glare mirrors" that have a function to suppress dazzling wavelengths of light from reflected light. Furthermore, they provide clear and stable mirror images while maintaining clarity. They are Japanese-made mirrors with little distortion, high transmittance, and are bright and easy to see.

The curvature of "Blue mirrors" is R1200, and "White mirrors" are R800 to R1200, so the field of view is wider compared to genuine mirrors.

In addition, some Napoleon mirrors incorporate a change site system that allows adjustment of the mirror housing position. This system greatly expands the range of movement for the mirror housing, allowing it to be adjusted according to the rider's height and whether or not they are carrying luggage.

Cited from: https://review.rakuten.co.jp/item/1/241080_10288097/1.1/

https://www.photo-ac.com/main/detail/2644589

Being able to freely change the angle when installed is a significant advantage. For example, on a naked motorcycle, mirrors generally cannot be angled significantly. Therefore, it is possible that after purchasing and installing a mirror, you might find that you can't see behind you, and only your arm is reflected in the mirror.

With Napoleon mirrors, this situation won't occur because there are many options for mirror angles, regardless of whether it's a naked or full-cowl type. If you find it difficult to see after mounting, simply changing the mirror's angle will greatly improve rear visibility.

Pro 2: Basically compatible with any model regardless of mounting pitch

https://www.photo-ac.com/main/detail/662155

The mounting hole sizes for motorcycle mirrors generally vary by model. Therefore, even if you purchase a universal motorcycle mirror, there is a possibility that it may not be installable due to differences in mounting hole size or width.

However, Napoleon mirrors can generally be installed on any model by changing their position. Especially for full-cowl motorcycles, the mounting hole positions differ for each manufacturer and model, but choosing a Napoleon mirror frees you from being restricted by mounting holes.

Pro 3: Good design and cool appearance

With universal mirrors, there's a possibility that they might significantly disrupt the existing style or look unattractive and out of place.
However, with a wide range of options from racing and cafe styles to naked and American styles, you can choose a mirror with a design that perfectly suits your motorcycle.

Cited from: https://twitter.com/tanahiko747400/status/832041931525890048

Pro 4: Mirror absorbs impact even if it makes contact

Napoleon mirrors use a turner mechanism, which has the great advantage of reducing the risk of damage when a motorcycle falls and also minimizing harm to pedestrians.
Users of Napoleon mirrors have shared reviews such as, "After taking this photo, I fell on the way back from a touring trip, but thanks to the turner on my Napoleon mirror, I was able to return without the mirror breaking."

Cited from: https://twitter.com/Loxonin_katana/status/1111465196529188864

Pro 5: You can actually virtually fit mirrors

Have you ever been disappointed after replacing your car's mirror, only to find that it didn't quite match your image? It's a shame that you can't try on mirrors like you would clothes. However, with Napoleon mirrors, you can rest assured because there's a free app called "COCOAR2" that allows for virtual fitting.

By scanning the package image with your smartphone with the app installed, you can see a virtual image of the mirror appear, which you can then align with your car to check how it looks when installed. With a rich variety of options like AZ mirrors, Cross 3, and Shark Mirror 3, and compatibility with many car models (such as GSX400, Hayabusa, CB400SB, Ninja400, Harley, etc.), such an app is very convenient for Napoleon mirrors.

User impressions of the app are "I tried the Tanax mirror fitting AR app!! It's hard to imagine what mirrors will look like without actually attaching them, so I thought this app was super convenient!!! 😆😆" and the reputation is excellent.

Cited from: https://twitter.com/goodridinggears/status/1215744245996212225

Con: Screws tend to loosen due to vibration

Reference: https://imp.webike.net/article/210284/

If the screw part for changing the angle loosens due to vibration, the mirror's angle may change on its own due to wind pressure. This can be resolved by properly tightening the screws and inspecting them before riding the motorcycle, tightening them if necessary.

Also, some users say that Napoleon mirrors are more difficult to adjust compared to genuine mirrors.
Motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy customization have commented, "I have that on my Cub. It's a Napoleon mirror. Once you get used to it, it's not a big deal, but adjusting it is difficult ´д` ;"

Napoleon mirrors are foldable for impact absorption, so adjusting them requires a bit of skill. However, you'll be able to adjust them easily once you get used to it.

Cited from: https://twitter.com/Ro_beruto/status/758629931106439168

Installation examples by model and mirror type

Naked type x Napoleon mirror

Cited from: https://www.webike.net/commu/impre/articleShouhinList/20316837/

This is a custom naked bike with Napoleon mirrors installed. The chic colors blend in well and look great. The ability to customize without significantly altering the appearance is also a major appeal.

Full cowl type x Napoleon mirror

Cited from: http://www.magicalracing.co.jp/LineUp/08_hayabusa.html

This is an example of a full-cowl type vehicle with Napoleon mirrors installed. The carbon mirrors look great on the white body.
Also, since the mirrors themselves are large, rear visibility tends to be low on full-cowl vehicles, but with these, you should be able to check behind you perfectly.

American type x Napoleon mirror

Cited from:
https://minkara.carview.co.jp/smart/userid/433384/car/2108852/8291889/parts.aspx

Finally, this is a custom American-type motorcycle with Napoleon mirrors installed.
It's great to have mirrors that suit even chopper styles like American bikes. This solves the problem of naked bike mirrors spoiling the design, and full-cowl type mirrors not being installable.

ST250 x TANAX Napoleon Balen Classic

Cited from: https://st250e.hatenablog.com/entry/napoleon-mirror-installed-to-st250
The Balen Classic is a cost-effective mirror that suits vintage-style motorcycles.
It features a foldable stay, allowing you to fold the mirror with a single touch, which is useful when parking or navigating narrow alleys.

SR500 x TANAX Napoleon Balen Classic

Cited from: https://www.webike.net/commu/impre/articleShouhinList/47824/&p=2
The sophisticated and simple Balen Classic looks great on vintage motorcycles like the SR500 and older models.
It's a mirror that changes the bike's impression significantly without disrupting its inherent image.

CBR250R x TANAX Napoleon Cowling Mirror 3

Cited from:
https://minkara.carview.co.jp/userid/2234143/car/1734570/6309448/parts.aspx
Mounting Cowling Mirror 3 on a CRE250R further sharpens the already sharp front end.
The mirror surface uses the new "Optics" technology, which cuts out only dazzling light, ensuring safe night riding.

CB400SB x TANAX Napoleon Cowling Mirror 3

Cited from:
https://www.bikebros.co.jp/community/CRP_view.php?id=5371&uid=uUndYlB5
Cowling mirrors also look great on naked bikes with front cowlings.
The Cowling Mirror 3, which flows seamlessly from the front cowling, also boasts high-quality texture.

FTR223 x TANAX Napoleon AZ Mirror

Cited from: https://imp.webike.net/diary/2187/
The AZ Mirror allows you to easily change the mirror height with just one screw at the joint.
With its simple design, the AZ Mirror is perfect for naked bikes like the FTR or scooter-type motorcycles.

Skywave 250 x TANAX Napoleon Cross 2

Cited from: https://twitter.com/soy_encer/status/1035517514371936256/photo/1
The Cross 2 combined with the Skywave 250 offers a design that suits everything from moped scooters to big scooters.
It's a highly functional mirror, featuring boot processing to protect the joint from dust and rain, as well as a turner mechanism that protects the mirror from impact in the event of a fall.

MT-25 x Napoleon Shark Mirror 4

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When installing the Shark Mirror 4 on an MT-25, it's recommended to tilt it about 30° to the left to prevent contact when squeezing through traffic. Even while riding, it doesn't shift due to the vibrations of the 2-cylinder engine and can be easily adjusted by hand, making it very convenient.

CBR400R x Napoleon Cowling Mirror 7

https://pixabay.com/

Replacing the genuine mirror (CBR400R) with the Cowling Mirror 7 is easy. Since it's a short type, it's perfect for full-cowl bikes and creates a very stylish look. It's recommended to widen the adjustment angle for better visibility.

PCX125 x Napoleon Stingray Mirror

Cited from:: http://aoyomi.blog72.fc2.com/blog-entry-149.html
The Stingray mirror is designed to be equipped on a wide range of motorcycles, regardless of the vehicle type.
The Stingray mirror, which also features the impact-absorbing Turner mechanism, has a beautiful chrome-plated design.

Even when replacing the genuine mirror (PCX125), it doesn't protrude from the handlebars and doesn't affect lane splitting. Using a height adjustment spacer (BM-10) is recommended for a perfect match. Napoleon mirrors are perfectly installable even on scooters, so you can customize with confidence.

Most popular Napoleon mirrors [ranked by reputation]

Napoleon Shark Mirror 4

https://bikeman.jp/

The Napoleon Shark Mirror 4 features a dynamic design that ignites the rider's spirit. Why not switch from a disadvantageous cowl mirror to a handlebar mirror for lane splitting? It also features a change site system, and you can choose between a Ray Save mirror or a blue mirror, which is a nice touch. However, the Napoleon Shark Mirror 4 does not meet vehicle inspection standards under all conditions for vehicle inspections.

Napoleon Cowling Mirror 7

https://bikeman.jp/

The Napoleon Cowling Mirror 7 now features a new base, making it compatible with a wider range of models. Its sleek black body matches various motorcycles. The Napoleon Cowling Mirror 7 does not meet all vehicle inspection standards under all conditions.

Napoleon Stingray Mirror

The mirror area of the Napoleon Stingray Mirror complies with new standards. Its beautiful chrome-plated finish makes it even more striking when mounted on a neo-retro bike. It features a turner mechanism that reduces the risk of damage in the event of a fall and minimizes harm to pedestrians. It's a chrome mirror perfect for naked bikes. The Napoleon Stingray Mirror does not meet all vehicle inspection standards under all conditions.