What is the meaning of giving a single spur to the survivor at a funeral of a biker?

Answer 1

Giving a spur to a Survivor is a biker's tradition of honoring a fallen friend or loss of a loved one.

Here is a presentation given at a friend's funeral (copied from a placard given to the family at the service) - the name has been removed to respect the privacy of the family.

Spur Presentation

"Today, I have worn this single spur in honor of [deceased's name].

This tradition dates back to medieval days and the knighthood, when medieval horsemen returning from battle would wear one spur instead of a pair, symbolizing the loss of their brother knight.

This was significant because it was their spurs that symbolized a man was a knight; not his sword, horse or armor. And no matter what kind of hardship a knight faced, he would part with everything else before he would part with his spurs.

This tradition has been handed down and adopted by many groups throughout the centuries. Most notably, perhaps, is the United States Cavalry, where spurs are only awarded to a deserving few. These chosen few represented the best of the best and embodied all that has been, is, and ever will be great within the organization.

The tradition has also been adopted by many of today's "Iron Horsemen" to honor a fallen brother or sister rider.

With this tradition in mind, it is an honor and a privilege to present you with this spur as a keepsake to remember your loved one's last ride. Please accept our deepest condolences."

When the verbal presentation is complete, motorcyclist kneels down, removes his spur, and presents it to the loved one. He then stands back up, turns and walks away.