Even the manufacturers of chain lube will admit that it does nothing to prevent the life of an O/X-ring chain. But it does prevent corrosion. The grease for a chain is applied when it's manufactured and intended to last for it's entire lifetime. It's held inside the rollers by those sealing rings. Although it could be argued that chain oil keeps those sealing rings lubricated which may prevent them drying out and degrading.

This is why you shouldn't use harsh solvents on a O-ring/Xring chain. And especially not penetrating oils like WD40 which will get behind through seals and clear out the grease.

However, it does prolong the life of your sprockets.

IMO, the absolute most important aspect of chain maintenance to pre-long life is setting the correct tension.

If your chain is sloppy, it's that YANK when the excess tension is taken up is which stretches your chain and wears out your sprockets.

I've worked this out in the last twenty years of working as a Motorcycle Tech. 99/100 bikes I have serviced in main dealers needed their chains tightening.

The biggest mistakes people make by doing it themselves is:

A) Doing it on a centre stand.... WRONG... (Side stand is where a manufacturer sets the tension)

B) Not finding the tight spot first

C) Over lubricating the chain so it acts like glue for grit and other abrasives.

D) Using harsh solvents which penetrate the sealing rings and wash the grease out.

E) Buying cheap chains. It's seldom cost effective.

__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.