Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I am in the market for a 4003 but was wondering if anyone knows what the difference is between the '09 and '10 models.
If a thinner neck is prefered, would these yr models be a fit?

FYi - This is an awesome site. I havent even bought my RIK yet, but already have majority of my questions answered.
Thanks ya'll

Mid 2009 to 2010 have the neck you want--a thin two-piece.

Cassius - Thanks..Im looking at a '09 right now. How would I know if its the type of neck you mention?
will the serial # tell me?

Welcome to the forum, Marcos. The serial number can be decoded for it's build date here on the RIC website:

Serial number decoder

If the 4003 has one of the trans finishes (Mapleglo or Fireglo) you'll be able to see if it has the two sections of the neck or not.

You're safe if it's after May 2009. I know RIC said the transition was in April but sometimes transitions mean occasional reverts, as with my 2007 AFG that did not have walnut wings even though the transition happened in 2006. But as Joey said, a translucent finish will guarantee the neck is two-piece. And honestly I think RIC has gone pretty hard and fast with the two-piece neck since April 2009 so I wouldn't be too worried.

Thanks guys....I got her today and man is she sweet. 4003FG - '10. Yes it has the two piece neck as you guys expected. Serial # shows 01/10 for production date. Thanks again for your responses!

BTW - If anyone knows of a 4004cii available, Shoot the info my way.

Got pix?
JimK

JimK- Not yet, but will get some up.

Tasty news. Welcome! Enjoy your Ric, as I know you will.

Fireglo has looked so good lately. I really hope the bass sounds and plays like you want. Believe it or not, I have four 4003/4001-type basses, but I'd still like (to at least play) a 2010 4003 for that two-piece neck construction.

cassius987 wrote:Fireglo has looked so good lately. I really hope the bass sounds and plays like you want. Believe it or not, I have four 4003/4001-type basses, but I'd still like (to at least play) a 2010 4003 for that two-piece neck construction.

I played one last week...nice bass, but the neck wasn't exactly "thin".

My 2009 is a "baseball bat" so that's not really what I'm shooting for anyways. Care to elaborate?

Back to the size of the neck, I was suprised that it wasnt as long as I expected and it is somewhat "fat".
Im a pretty big guy and its small in my hands, but I see how it could be thick to others.

How do upload images?

Ricks just keep getting better:
Full width Inlays
UV, non-yellowing finishes
Slim, two piece bass necks

The longer I wait to buy a 4003 to replace my long gone JG 4001, the happier I'll probably be with the bass, not that I'm not already pretty happy with Rick basses!