Check the play on the rear wheel. If the cone(s?) are set too tight, the pedals will turn as the bike is pushed forward. Acording to Sheldon, the rear rim should have a pinch of play at the rim--I guess these hubs aren't adjusted as tight as other hubs. As for checking the bottom bracket, can you pop off the master link so you can spin the crank without the chain? I'd do that. Also, you can drip oil down the seat post tube--after removing the seat--a few drops, aimed onto the spindle, might delay the need to tear apart the cottered bottom end.