A stock V-Rod is faster, handles better, and revs higher than the standard Harley offerings. The overhead cam, liquid cooled engine design were an attempt to increase stock performance and still meet EPA noise standards, both now and in the future. The higher revving engine does not make the low rpm torque of the air cooled push rod engine Harley's, but by being able to rev to higher rpm's and having a power band biased more toward high rpm horsepower, the V-Rod is faster, and some what quicker. I ride a Vulcan, my 903 cc (55 cubic inches) bike is faster than even the V-Rod (in stock form), and handles better than any of the air cooled bikes (better lean angles, better steering geometry, and a more comfortable saddle). The V-Rod does not have the after-market support of other Harleys, nor the more popular Metric bikes.
The choice is yours, a good bike is a good bike. A great bike is the one in your own garage.