Originally Posted by
Fueled by Boh
i dont think chain "stretch" or wear has anything to do with frequency of lubrication. i think its mostly related to amount of torque generated. lubing a chain staves off rust and weathering, and behooves shifting, but i dont think it does much to prevent wear.
I'll disagree with you. My understanding is that lubricating a chain prevents "stretch" or wear in several ways. The term "stretch" is actually a misnomer, it's the roller bearings wearing out over time, which usually causes the chain to lengthen overall. Once "stretched" a chain will no longer mesh properly with cog teeth, causing premature gearing wear.
Lubrication can help remove grit & sand etc out of the rollers, decreasing wear.