Wynand,
For about 3 years now I have been wondering the same thing; in fact it's more like an itch I think I need to scratch.
I am considering either Kendo (to go 180-degrees in the opposite direction of "no-conflict") or Iaido (where there is no partner, just yourself). Both those observations are probably wrong, as I have never trained in Kendo, and only attended 2 Iaido classes. But they are my perceptions such as they are.
As for Deans original question:
1-Maybe I am missing something in my Aikido.
2-Maybe the Aikido I am being taught is missing something.
My .02$ at 8:00am (after being at work since 6:00