I had the same questions for my 2009. I looked at this thread for input: http://www.venturerider.org/forum/showthread.php?t=29503&highlight=shocks
I settled on 4 pounds in the front. In the rear, I run 25# if solo, 35# if riding double, and 45# if riding double and carrying full bags, trunk, and trunk bag. For me, these provide good handling in curves and a pleasant ride on the straights. Just got back from two weeks in Colorado with wife and everything we could stuff in/on the bike. The 45# worked great for us.