There were over 50 different Roadstar models built in 6 years of production, so use as many features as possible to ID a specific model.

Parts can be swapped, especially pickups.

Some Roadstar Pro models have "Roadstar Series" on the headstock. However, Roadstar Pro models are not covered here.

Number will be stamped into the neckplate, or embossed on the back of the headstock.

The letter prefix (A thru L) indicates the month (A = January, B = February, C = March, etc…) The first two digits are the last two digits of the year. Example: G84**** was built July 1984.

This format is very consistent for these years.

Number will be stamped into the neckplate, or on a sticker on the back of the headstock.

Japanese models will have an F prefix (for Fuji Gen Gakki). Korean built models may have a P prefix, or no prefix.

The first digit is the last digit of the year. Example: F7***** was built at Fuji Gen Gakki in 1987.

If there is no prefix, the first two digits are the year. Example: 88***** was built in 1988.

NOTE: Serial number formats may vary for these years! Be aware, F85**** could be June 1985, or a Fuji-built 1988 model.

Neckplates can be swapped and stickers fall off. So, don't rely on the serial number alone for dating.

(In the above examples, digits represented by the asterisks are sequential production numbers of little or no consequence.)

Production (Model) year, often overlapped the calendar year. 

Example: An K85**** serial number indicates a November 1985 build date, but may be found on a 1986 model.

Roadstar production started in late 1982. 

Model years are based on best available information.

Models released after the main part of the line will have "Mid-Year" in the "Notes" column.

All '83-'86 models were built in Japan.

Low-end models (100 series) were built in Korea starting in 1987.

Korean built models have smaller neckplates and spring covers.

"Standard" refers to Stratocaster type contours.

"Slab" has radiused edges, but no tummy or forearm contours.

"Flat Top" & "Arched Top" models have body binding.

The RS1400 and RS1500 have unique contours "Arched Top, Beveled Edges".

The RS525 and RG525 have unique contours "Curved Top".

24 fret models have slightly shorter bodies to accommodate the longer necks.

1986 and later bodies are narrower than '83-'85.

The RG410, RG420, and RG425, have a sharper (less rounded) edge radius.

The 1987 RG550 was the first model with very sharp edges. This body style became the standard for the "RG Series".

The "Sculpted Neck Joint" is first shown on the 1988 RG550 & RG560. Unknown if the 1987 RG550 had this feature.

"Matched" means the headstock matches the body finish.

The "Blade" headstock was used from '83-'86.

There were two different size "Blade" headstocks used in '84-'85. There is no apparent pattern to this usage.

"Blade" headstocks have the Ibanez logo printed in a gentle arch near the lower edge.

"Blade" headstocks are lettered: "Roadstar II Series", "The Ultimate Expression Of Craftsmanship"

The pointy "Duckbill", or "Impaler" style headstock appears on '87 and later models.

The '87 RG550 was the first with an angled-back (Tilt-Joint) headstock.

1987 and later headstocks have the "Check-Mark" stripe with the Ibanez logo printed in a straight line.

Most '87 headstocks are lettered: "Roadstar Series".

Most '88 headstocks have no lettering.

Specifications are based on a combination of available literature, and visual evidence.

"Duo-Sound" was the Ibanez name for coil-tapping a humbucker via a push-push (or push-pull) control knob. 

If two different hardware colors are shown, the color was dependent on the finish.

Anything unusual or specific to a particular model will be indicated here.

The only signature model Roadstar.

Two different models were built. Both have the same model number.

The 1st design (early), is based on the RS1000. The 2nd design (late), is based on the RS1300.

Production started in late '83. The change occurred in mid '84. (1st and 2nd design production dates are still being researched.)

Large and small headstocks were used on both designs.

Marine Sunburst (MS) is the only finish listed.

All have special fretboard inlays and "Steve Lukather" signature neckplates.