>>247908Only as dangerous as you make it.
The right equipment makes a big difference. Studs (or screws, if you're into straight-up ice riding/racing) greatly improve traction, enough that with some practice you can be pretty confident in most situations. Unstudded knobbies is doable, but not something I'd suggest.
Protective gear goes a long ways too.
On the street, I'm not as worried about my capabilities as I am about the lack of capabilities of those around me. Know your limits, watch your 6, and always always always leave yourself an out.