Road Bike Racing - How many kms do you get from Dura-ace?

I just replaced my chain and cassette. I put almost or thereabouts 3000 kms on that set up before it started clicking and just feeling crappy. Wasn't mis-shifting but didn't feel smooth, even when cleaned. I ride D.A. 9spd, and replaced my parts with the same. If I move to 10 spd will I get even less kms out of it? And what about 12 speed, I have heard it's in the works. Do I really need to move up in speeds? 9spd seems fine for me, in fact there are ZERO hills where I live anyways. I just don't want to replace my drive train twice a year if I ride as much as I'd like. And isn't 10 spd noticably heavier than the 9 up front?

Any thoughts?

Why spend the money to switch to 10 if the 9 speed suits you fine? I made the switch at the start of the year when I got my new bike. I have noticed a shorter life span in the 10 spd chain (not a surprise since it is thinner than the 9). You should be able to get more than 3000km out of a 9 speed chain. The cassette and chain rings should last a lot longer if you keep the chain in good shape and don't ride a worn out chain. I suggest getting the Park Tool chain checker and use it regularly. Replace your chain when it starts reading past .75. Regularly cleaning your chain and drive train will go a long way in extending the life of these parts. I used to get 3000+ miles on my 9 speed chains and get about 1800 on the 10 speed.

3000km sounds about right for 9 or 10 speed.

Bad weather/sh*t roads, sooner.

Any bike shop will be able to tell you if your chain/cogs are worn.

Apparently you guys take rather bad care of your chains. I just changed my DA 10 chain with 4500 miles - the cassette still looks great. The bike was still running smoothly, and it was changed, because it had just about reached the max wear point on my Park chain gauge. I ride hard, and ride 5-7 days a week. I guess the difference is that I clean my chain virtually every day, and keep it nicely oiled with a dry lube (Pedros) that tends not to pick up dirt from the road. I guess I would rather spend the money on chemicals than expensive chains and cassettes.

Thanks