I wonder how many guitarists are on Fluther, and how many of them play Rickenbackers, and how many of them have ordered (presumably) from the company directly? I’m guessing zero. It’s possible your local guitar shop has dealt with them, maybe they can provide you with a somewhat informed answer. If you’ve been told “at least two years, maybe longer” you might want to consider buying a used one, or if that doesn’t work for ya consider buying a different model, or maybe even a different Manufacturer altogether? I understand Jimi Hendrix played a Stratocaster, and if you’ve seen any of his live performances you must admit he kicked some serious ass using that brand. Anyway, good luck, I’m sure you’ll find a suitable resolution. Purple Haze!