Originally Posted by
prathmann
I see no reason why we wouldn't see more wear in one half of the chain than in the other half if there were really an advantage to be gained by regular cleaning. The wear is on the individual parts of each link so if there's a benefit from cleaning that link it should show up as reduced elongation of that part of the chain.
The problem is that both halves share the same sprockets. If one section elongates faster, it'll wear the sprockets to match it's pitch. The shorter chain half's links will then be submitted to proportionally greater force, which will accelerate wear.
I understand the basic idea (et ceteris paribus). But I am not convinced that it makes sense. I'd rather read about comparable drivetrains and simulated riding conditions where the maintenance schedule is manipulated.