So I took my beloved Roubaix in for a tuneup prior to a century ride this weekend. I knew it needed new bartape, but it turned out that the chain needed replacing too. It was replaced only 1700 miles ago, but it was at the limit of wear tolerance (I trust the LBS's judgement on such matters, BTW; they're good folks.)

That's really lousy mileage for a chain, especially since it's never experienced rain, mud, etc. Dry and clean most of the time in Southern California, and lubed more often than necessary.

Is there anything to be done to prolong chain life? Do some chains last longer than others? Am I just venting about a necessary expense that's part of the newer, high-tech bikes?