Peculiar as only a green Ducati superbike can be, the 2004 Matrix Reloaded edition commemorated a 996 that was used in 2002 to film the movie which was released in 2003. Still the early testastretta engine had a great platform in the mature 916/996 chassis, and is a great collectible and rider.
2004 Ducati 998 Matrix Reloaded Edition for sale on eBay
Using a familiar desmodue crankcase but all new hardparts and valvetrain, the 998 had 123 hp available. The Matrix is trimmed out in silver and occasional gold, the silver trellis frame having Showa forks with Ti-nitrided sliders and gold Öhlins monoshock. Centers for the Brembo 320mm floating rotors are also gold anodized and 4-piston calipers of course painted gold. With the last of the iconic side-by-side headlights, the green fairing requires a scrunch to really get under the 165 mph wind, but can do an 11-second 1/4 with the right rider.
Looking substantially stock with only a boo-boo or two for its 12,500 miles, this 998 has been and could continue to be enjoyed. Some maintenance history is offered, and the owner has updated the exhaust to Silmoto slip-ons as well as removed the rear turn signals in favor of the popular LED tailight / directionals. He says this in the eBay auction:
2004 Ducati 998 Matrix Edition. Very limited production (1 year only, about 250 made). Factory green paint. Adult ridden, and well cared for. About 12500 miles on it. Newer tires, oil changed recently. Upgrades include: SILMOTO carbon fiber exhaust, carbon fiber heel plates, heat shield, chain guard and sprocket cover, Pipercross air filter, integrated rear tail light/ turn signals and open clutch cover. Dyno tested at 114 HP at the rear wheel with a very good power band. Rear stand included with “buy it now” price. NEVER ON A TRACK!
Possibly the ultimate base model of its generation, the 1098 reviewed with stable if heavyweight handling and great usable powerband. The distinctive Matrix colors are a bonus for the fan or collector with a stable of red and yellow Ducs. The ask seems optimistic here but certainly bears watching. The rideable condition of this 998 would be great to re-create Neo’s escape with the Keymaker or with its rarity, the basis for an easy restoration…
-donn