Originally Posted by
staehpj1
Heel clearance might be an issue with rear panniers and 20" wheels and most panniers. I'd think front panniers and some gear on top of the rear rack might be a good way to go. If you go rear panniers they may need to be small and/or be shaped to maximise heel clearance. Some discipline in packing light would allow lower weight and volume and make the packing easier and the riding more pleasant.
Bike Friday are designed to carry panniers, so they've got longer chainstays than other 20" wheeled biked. Heel strike has not been an issue at all for me.
I also have a Zizzo Liberte folder that I used as a town bike, with a rear rack and panniers. I have to set the rear panniers as far back as possible, where the leading edge of the pannier is close to the rear axle - in order to avoid heel strike.