I actually found a temporary solution if I uninstall the drivers for my G13 the Joystick's ID is reset. I was gonna post a follow up to this thread saying I did but never got around to it.
I actually have LOMAC and Flaming Cliffs 2 as well as A-10C and F-15C for DCS. But Flanker 2.5 was the first game I ever played and so it holds a lot of sentimental value for me. I also think that while it doesn't look as good and isn't realistic, it's more fun than the newer titles :) Just my opinion though.