Downshift in hydrostatic drive work machine

The present disclosure provides a hydrostatic drive work machine, and a method and control module having a control algorithm for performing a downshifting event in the work machine. The method includes the step of inducing a retarded mode in the work machine, if upon commanding a downshift the work machine is not in a retarded mode. The method further includes the steps of adjusting a displacement of each of a variable displacement pump and a variable displacement motor in a hydrostatic drive of the work machine, and increasing pressure on a low clutch of the work machine. The control algorithm includes means for inducing a retarded mode in the work machine, if the work machine is not in a retarded mode upon commanding a downshift, with at least one of a variable displacement motor and a variable displacement pump in a hydrostatic drive of the work machine.