Just what everyone needs- 1x13

That's what I was thinking of, the free hub for compatibility. And yes, it looks like I have the XD according to the bike specs.
Time to replace ( again) the cassette and wanted a less expensive option than SRAM.

 

Sunrace 12 on a Shimano-splined hub works great with GX Eagle drivetrain FYI.

https://www.jensonusa.com/Sunrace-CSMZ80-12-Speed-Cassette?_br_psugg_q=sunrace+12+speed+cassette

 

I like this guy.

Founder of Starling Cycles:

The new bike isn't a singlespeed like the Sturn, but you won't find a dinner plate sized cassette on the rear wheel, either. Instead, McEwan has been experimenting with running five cogs that he's installed on a Project 321 singlespeed hub. Of course, the frame can accept a larger cassette, but in McEwan's words, “Personally, I don't think we need 13 gears...”

https://www.pinkbike.com/news/starl...is-a-steel-high-pivot-29er-with-5-speeds.html

 

https://forums.mtbr.com/29er-bikes/6-speed-cassette-ss-hub-please-post-your-setup-573783.html

 

That goes back 10 years!

 

What did you do with the 12-speed cassette? Those things are $$$$

 

..... and it is only 400 grams heavier than the $400 SRAM.

 

I took the 11 spd from @horsebikerider and gave her my 12 spd.