I agree with Popeye.....  I live in a rainy wet area here on the west coast.  I ride year round and yes in the summer the tall shield is fantastic for riding, but, come the wet weather in fall and winter, it IS dangerous.   
I am going to take mine off and have a plastic shop shorten it down for me..... as the Venture is the first "big" bike I have had it is a live and learn experiance.  And I do like the live part.............   
ride safe   
Kevin