[Blue Jays]

"...It rains a lot in Seattle and there are hills everywhere, especially right in downtown..."

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My anticipation is the very frequent rain was the biggest hurdle.
Even with fenders and Gore-Tex garments, it is a challenge. :-)

[Blood of Tyrants]

I was stationed at Whidbey Island for 3 years in the 80s. I am very familiar with the weather up there.