Yamaha DTXpress/DTXplorer/DTXtreme

Hi Everyone:

I've had my DTXpress II for almost 4 months now, and I notice that the KP-65 
kick pad is crumbling on the rubber surface where the beaters are hitting it.  
I called Yamaha, and they said to either use a softer beater or go ahead and 
send it in.  As I play every day, I asked about putting beater patches on the 
kick pad, and they said that it will NOT void the warranty in any way.

Has anyone had this problem?

Thanks!
Stephanie