New style "O" or "X" chains are far superior to the older ones, thats for sure! They do require lube to slow the wear on the sprockets tho. I use Maxima Chain Wax, applied to a warm chain, allowed to dry, it works great at lubricating the outer roller and sprockets. The internal pins and bushings will never recieve lube from an external source, they are sealed with their own lube.
I apply the lube appprox every 4-5000klms, and not too much!
Its all about the chain quality to start. I only use EK 530 ZZZ or MVXZ(new version) with a tensile strength of 11,000lbs. My original 530ZZZ went 73000klms. It did not break, only the master link gave in. I think I di not get it properlu lubed when it was installed in 07. I fully expect the MVXZ to do the same or better. The best part was adjustment was only required when installing a new rear tire. You will intinially have to adjust the chain tesnion at approx 1000klms as the sprockets wear in, after that adjustment will only be needed as the sprockets wear, at a very slow rate (tire changes) The EK chain simply has no stretch I could detect.
That with an S&S T124 in front that does not get babied!! Use only steel sprockets, aluminium rear sprockets simply don't last on street bikes! If your shredding belts, the chain stops that right now, but watch for wheel bearings, bent axles or tranny gears!! Good luck Buffalo