One of the other things I like to see this time of year in Seattle is the "rain bikes" that the serious roadies are using. Some folks just put temporary fenders, like Race Blades, on their bikes, but plenty of other people have dedicated rain bikes with permanent fenders and super-long mud flaps in the back for group rides.
Some are 3 to 5 year old race bikes have been relegated to winter-bike status. Others are 'cross bikes with smooth tires and permanent fenders. On the way home one night last week in the rain I got passed by a guy on a beautiful Moots ti race bike with permanent fenders and long mud flaps.
I never thought fenders were cool until I moved to Seattle...now I see them as signs of a rider who's ready to go all year.