I have a 2022 and they are pretty stiff. Especially if you try to do them both together. Much easier one at a time. I think they are supposed to be fairly stiff though.
I have a 2018 and they are stiff as well. Mostly just getting into and out of the closed (up) position. I think it creates a tight seal as it closes. I did lubricate through the drain holes every few times out and cycle a few times and it does help.
I also only pull down one lever at a time, so to not pull out the whole panel.
I did see a video a while back of a guy pulling down both levers together - it was a new boat walkthrough. Looked easy, but mine have never been that easy.