Originally Posted by
Nick Bain
why would a narrow chain wear faster?
Most chains require retirement due to elongation which comes from the holes in the inner plates growing larger and pins becoming smaller.
Since 3/32" derailleur chains are all the same inside width the total width decreases come from thinner side plates.
Thinner side plates mean a smaller bearing surface and higher pressures which should result in faster wear at the inner plate/pin contact points.