Shocker, I went from a Road* to a venture and very glad I did. It takes a little getting used to because of the different power band. The venture is not a V-Twin its a V-4. The power band is between 5 grand and 7500 rpms. I can tell you from experience there isn't many V-twins that will keep up with a properly riden venture. With a few mods I am running a little over 100 hp. This thing will wind out and loves the high rpm's.
The engine size fools alot of people, but with 2 more cyclinders its a power house.

The ride is so smooth you will be cruising at 80 thinking your doing 60.

I would say the venture is between a ultra and a wing. You can keep up but not out run a wing, but it will smoke a ultra hands down, better warranty, more power and about 8 grand cheaper than the overpriced ultra.

Stock the ultra will out handle the venture, but for about $300 you can lower the venture and it will handle as good as the pre 09 models. I haven't riden the 09's so I can't compare it to the ventures handling.

I picked up a 03, which was lowered with a Dyna ignition with 14000 miles for $9,000.

If you are wanting a true touring bike with the classic looks you can't go wrong with the venture.

Gas mileage is not as good as the ultra, but the 25 more ponies is worth it. I average 40-45mpg.