The gears in the transmission are unsynchronized. You won't be able to shift from one gear to another like in an automobile. You either start out in first, second or third gear.

The transmission input shaft must be stopped before you try to shift into gear. If the belt is still moving, you won't be able to shift.

Here's a good explanation of the transmissions:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manual_transmission

Thank You, ......... that makes sense. Glad I finally found a group that actually knows how these boogers work. and answers questions.