Thanks for the photos, Mark. Unfortunately, flat pedals are not an option for me. They ARE... just not one I wish to consider. Once accustomed to the position and security (yes, security) they provide, using a flat pedal to move my foot to a less-desirable position simply isn't something I want to try. Besides, my foot would likely still instinctively try to go where it's accustomed and still hit the pannier from time to time. The 1/2-inch buffer shown above can be maintained indefinitely with clipless pedals without even thinking about it.