How about a open source motocross game.

[Garasaki]

Well the thing with MXS is the challenge of riding it does pay off.  The game honestly gets more fun and feels more realistic the more you play it.  It definately makes you want to throw your controller thru the monitor sometimes...well a lot at first.

If you've seen some of the vids of MXS, like by mittocs or DJ Diehl 777 for instance, you can kinda see why people are so into it.

I think I kinda get the whole development thing - you and JLV probably think a lot alike, and he is very slow to allow any other hands on his project.

You've definately got some noble ambitions.  Let us know if you need any help!!