Thanks for the reply.  I tested the same track with a different DCC locomotive and there were no issues which leads me to believe that your diagnosis is correct.  Two follow up questions:

Since the locomotive only does this in forward and will not move when put in reverse, would manually flipping the locomotive to face the other direction result in the same symptoms but run in reverse?  Only asking before I unbox the locomotive again. 

Lastly, as I learn more about DCC and the features, namely CV29, would I be better off getting a different DCC system and if so, what does everyone recommend?  I'm looking for something simple to use. 

Thanks. 

I'm very new to DCC and have a Bachmann EZ Command Control Center transformer.  I put an HO Spectrum 4-4-0 DCC (no sound) locomotive on my track and it runs full throttle in forward without moving the throttle knob.  The only way to stop it is to hit the stop button.  It will not run in reverse.  Anyone ever encounter this before and if so, how does one correct it?