Originally Posted by banerjek

If you think about it, a chain link looks like a small pulley (and it could easily be used as one because of the roller). Bobke undoubtedly remembers from introductory science that as you add pulleys, you get more mechanical advantage. Therefore, the more links, the more mechanical advantage.

Although this would not not normally be technically referred to as leverage, the chain would seem fairly rigid when subjected to the forces of a pro rider pedaling hard. As such, it could theoretically act as a lever that applies force to the rear wheel much the same way a chain whip does.