I had that more than once at Ukrainian borders ... I guessed they were looking for cash :)

Now that you mention it, after examining my document for all that time, he turned to me and asked "if that was all I had." I assumed he was talking about documents, but maybe he was after some cash! Actually a few minutes later he let me through, although a little grumpily.

To come back on the original question, I have entered Russia a few weeks ago with a company registered bike. Definately make sure you have a document from a lawyer or notary, or even from the company itself, stating you can drive the motorcycle.

I didn't have the right document and was almost turned back. Took me a whole night before they let me through. The main problem was I only had a photocopy, and they wanted to see more stamps (really).

Entering Kazakhstan from Russia is no problem nowadays (as far as customs is concerned) thanks to the recent customs unions treaty between them.

-Wanderer

Wanderer, thanks for the data point. in which language was your letter written?

motoreiter,
it was a Dutch coompany ownership document (should have known better :-)

Meanwhile, a notary has sent me an English document, so we'll see how it goes in central asia. But I think English is fine.

Wanderer, please let us know how your next border crossings passes on, when you have the notary document. I will be in the same situation in a couple of month, so hopefully you will not experience any problems. Safe journey.

No problemo
 

impala_dk and motoreiter, here's an update:

I haven't had any more problems with my company registered bike after Russia, in Central-Asia nor in the Caucasus. The only time that customs even asked for proof of ownership was when we left Kyrgyzstan, and my English document was accepted.

Good luck,
Wanderer

bier Wow, I would never have guessed...