It will, but it will require more force. **EDIT* Just to be clear, this is because the crank is is now mechanically trying to send power through the tranny to the rear wheel. If the rear wheel is on the ground, you'll essentially be attempting to move the bike forward and the tire may skitter on the concrete a bit, as if you were trying to burn some rubber. ** Easiest way to tell is get the rear wheel off the ground and attempt to turn the crank. Shouldn't take too much effort. If it turns, you're in gear, but even better, your motor is rotating.